M23 rebels have seized control of Bukavu in Eastern DRC, promising to restore security amid rising fears of widespread conflict. The takeover follows their capture of Goma and has led to significant civilian displacement and looting of humanitarian supplies. Despite these challenges, some economic activities are slowly resuming in the city, as the local populace attempts to return to normal life while facing ongoing humanitarian struggles.
Rebels associated with the M23 group, which is reportedly backed by Rwanda, have vowed to restore order in Bukavu, a major city in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This city has become the second significant urban area to be captured by the M23 in just over a month. Following the takeover, residents began cautiously resuming their daily activities in Bukavu, which was seized with minimal resistance from the Congolese military that retreated under pressure.
Many locals fled to Burundi due to the violence, while some who chose to remain welcomed the M23 fighters as they entered the city. According to a statement relayed on local radio, the M23-led alliance will assist inhabitants of Bukavu who felt abandoned by their military. They claimed, “Our forces have been working to restore security for the people and their property, much to the satisfaction of the entire population.”
The M23, also known as the March 23 Movement, has gradually taken control of vast areas in Eastern DRC since resuming hostilities in late 2021. Its capture of Bukavu, a commercial center with approximately 1.3 million residents, has further undermined the authority of the national government and raised concerns about a potential broader conflict in the region.
After capturing Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, last month, the M23 escalated its offensive in South Kivu. The United Nations reported that clashes between the M23 and Congolese forces caused thousands of casualties. The newly appointed rebel governor of North Kivu also announced the imminent reopening of ports in both Bukavu and Goma, which had been closed due to the conflict.
Despite no large-scale violence occurring in Bukavu, the city experienced looting as residents took advantage of the chaos. Reports indicate that looters stole approximately 7,000 tonnes of humanitarian food supplies meant for vulnerable communities. The World Food Programme condemned these actions and emphasized the necessity to adhere to international humanitarian laws to protect civilians.
Local business owner Pascal Zulu expressed despair over the looting, stating, “The thugs arrived, they took everything, and nothing remains.” On a more hopeful note, some economic activity began to resume in Bukavu’s markets, as vendors slowly returned to their stalls. One fruit and spice seller noted, “We are taking advantage of this calm to restart our commercial activities, otherwise how will we live?”.
The M23 represents one of over 100 armed factions competing for control in Eastern DRC, an area rich in mineral resources. UN experts estimate that around 4,000 Rwandan troops are assisting the group, although Rwanda has denied supplying military support as alleged by DRC, the UN, and various Western nations.
Following the capture of Bukavu by M23 rebels, regional stability in Eastern DRC is at high risk. The M23’s commitment to restoring security contrasts sharply with the humanitarian crisis unfolding due to looting and armed conflict. The involvement of Rwandan troops adds another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation, raising international concerns about escalating violence and the plight of civilians caught in the crossfire.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
