As conflict escalates in eastern DR Congo, many men, like Jordan Bita, risk drowning in the Rusizi River to escape forced conscription by M23 rebels. Nearly 70,000 have sought refuge in Burundi amid a humanitarian crisis marked by unsafe camp conditions and tragic losses, such as those experienced by Clarice Kacindi. With geopolitical tensions exacerbating the situation, support is urgently needed for the overwhelmed refugee population.
In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, many men are risking their lives by swimming across the treacherous Rusizi River to escape forced conscription by M23 rebels. Jordan Bita, a 25-year-old, clung to his possessions as he navigated the river to reach safety in Burundi. His journey symbolizes a desperate attempt to flee the escalating conflict as M23 rebels gain control over major cities like Goma and Bukavu.
The Burundian army is monitoring the riverbanks where nearly 70,000 displaced Congolese have sought refuge over the past month. Rebels, believed to be backed by Rwanda, continue their advance into DR Congo, intensifying the urgency for locals to escape. Bita utilized forest routes to avoid detection and conscription by M23 fighters.
Upon reaching Burundi, Bita faced checks by military personnel to ensure he carried no weapons. After passing this checkpoint, he made his way to a refugee camp, carrying food supplies for his family. Conditions in the camps are dire, with many sharing tents and receiving limited food rations, highlighting the humanitarian crisis.
Others, like Amani Sebakungu, reflected on the harrowing river crossing, admitting, “In the river you just have to take heart and say if I die or survive, so be it.” With at least 20 drowning incidents reported, the risks are immense. Survivors are trying to rebuild their lives while facing the realities of conflict and loss.
Clarice Kacindi shared her tragic experience of losing a child during the crossing, emphasizing the dire consequences of the ongoing violence. Refugees continue to arrive in Burundi, primarily women and children, as men are often forced to remain and defend DR Congo against rebel advances.
Burundi has deployed over 10,000 troops to assist DR Congo, reflecting its long-standing conflict with Rwanda. The geopolitical tensions complicate the situation, adding to fears of increased violence if the M23 fortifies its position in South Kivu. The influx of refugees is unprecedented, marking a significant challenge for Burundi’s resource capacity and social stability.
Brigitte Mukanga-Eno from the UN refugee agency stressed the need for support to manage this crisis effectively. Individuals like 87-year-old Magega Mwarui have experienced displacement multiple times, illustrating the region’s chronic instability. Meanwhile, Charlotte Odile seeks a peaceful future for her children after tragically losing her husband to violence.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has forced thousands of Congolese to risk their lives for safety in Burundi. The M23 rebels’ actions have led to widespread displacement, particularly among men who fear conscription into the fighting. Refugee camps face overwhelming numbers and dire living conditions, while the broader geopolitical tensions between Congo, Burundi, and Rwanda complicate the crisis further, necessitating international support for humanitarian efforts.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
