The resurgence of M23 rebels in eastern Congo, backed by Rwanda, has led to a renewed humanitarian crisis, political instability, and significant loss of life. The conflict is driven by ethnic tensions and economic interests in vital mineral resources. Attempts to resolve the conflict face numerous obstacles, including a weak Congolese government and divided regional cooperation.
The recent resurgence of Rwanda-backed insurgents in eastern Congo has reignited an enduring conflict marked by ethnic rivalries, competition for mineral wealth, and political exclusion. On March 19, 2025, Jim Lindsay spoke with Mvemba Phezo Dizolele from the Center for Strategic and International Studies to discuss this pressing issue. The current conflict pits the M23 rebel group, which is funded by Rwanda, against the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s government.
The M23 rebels have recently taken control of Goma and Bukavu, eastern Congo’s two largest cities, leading to a humanitarian crisis. Rwanda has deployed an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 troops to assist the M23, who are actively fighting against Congo’s forces and the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR). The conflict has resulted in approximately 7,000 lives lost and over 600,000 people displaced this year, with millions more facing potential famine. Historically, around two million Hutu Rwandans fled to Congo post-genocide, further complicating the situation.
The roots of the conflict transcend ethnic issues; financial interests are pivotal in sustaining hostilities. M23 initially accused the Congolese government of collaborating with the FDLR against Tutsi interests, but economic motivations remain at the forefront. Eastern Congo is rich in essential minerals like cobalt and coltan. Mvemba noted that both state and private actors maintain a lucrative war economy, exacerbated by accusations of Rwanda exploiting Congo’s resources—an issue complicated by European mineral trade agreements.
Attempts to resolve the conflict through political settlements or military action appear ineffective. The Congolese government in Kinshasa has failed to address numerous internal challenges, previously abandoning key reform processes. Despite the presence of UN peacekeeping forces, the resurgence of the M23 has not been contained. Divisions within regional communities further obstruct mediation efforts. As Mvemba pointed out, the M23 lacks broad support within Congo, making a repeat of past conflicts unlikely, ultimately leaving the chances for lasting peace diminished.
The conflict in eastern Congo, fueled by Rwanda-backed M23 insurgents, is deeply rooted in ethnic grievances and financial motivations. This situation has led to severe humanitarian impacts, with thousands dead and hundreds of thousands displaced. Efforts toward political resolution are hampered by internal Congolese issues and external interests, suggesting that the prospect of enduring peace remains elusive.
Original Source: www.cfr.org
