M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, were reported in Bukavu, DRC’s second-largest city. Spokesman Willy Ngoma confirmed their presence, while local observers reported seeing them enter the town. Their advance follows the capture of Goma, indicating a significant territorial expansion for the M23 militia amid ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.
On Sunday, M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, were reported to have entered Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Congo, according to various local sources, including officials and eyewitnesses. Willy Ngoma, a spokesperson for the M23 militia, confirmed their presence in the city, stating, “we are there.” One local official, who chose to remain anonymous for security reasons, stated, “I’m at home, and I can see with my own eyes the M23 entering our town.”
The Congolese army has not provided a response concerning the situation in Bukavu, which has witnessed intensified fighting since the M23 seized control of Goma in late January. The M23 group had been advancing towards Bukavu since mid-February 2025, following their initial occupation of Goma, thereby consolidating their grip on territory in eastern DRC.
As of mid-February, the M23 rebels entered the outskirts of Bukavu, a city of 1.3 million residents, marking a significant step in their territorial expansion since the resurgence of their insurgency in 2022. If confirmed, the occupation of Bukavu would accentuate the largest territorial gain by the M23 in this renewed conflict, signaling a critical development in the dynamics of power in the region.
The M23 rebels’ presence in Bukavu represents a significant territorial advancement for the group, which has already established control over Goma and surrounding areas since early 2025. The situation remains precarious, with the absence of immediate comment from the Congolese army. The ongoing conflict underscores the instability in eastern DRC, exacerbated by external support for the M23 militia and preceding unresolved tensions in the region.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
