Burundi is withdrawing its troops from DR Congo as M23 fighters make gains, leading to a significant refugee influx. Estimated at 30,000 refugees have crossed into Burundi recently, exacerbating humanitarian needs. Military tensions raise fears of regional conflict similar to the past.
Burundi has intensified the withdrawal of its troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) amid increasing tensions and military advances by Rwandan-backed M23 fighters. These developments are prompting a significant influx of refugees into Burundi, marking the largest wave in 25 years. Reports indicate that M23 is progressing toward strategic locations in eastern DR Congo, particularly the provinces of North and South Kivu.
On Thursday, a senior military official mentioned the extraction of Burundian soldiers from the DRC’s Rusizi plain. While the exact number of troops being withdrawn was not disclosed, one battalion was dispatched to ensure the safe extraction amidst reports of severe resupply issues faced by Burundian forces, attributed to disorganization within the Congolese military.
Since October 2023, Burundi has deployed over 10,000 soldiers to assist the Congolese army against the M23 and other armed factions. However, Burundian troops are reportedly suffering from lack of ammunition and food, leading to dire living conditions as they cope with shortages. Early reports of a tactical withdrawal were denied by the Burundian military.
The UNHCR reported a sudden increase of refugees entering Burundi, with Brigitte Mukanga-Eno stating that the country is witnessing its largest influx since the early 2000s. She indicated that about 30,000 individuals have crossed into Burundi due to escalating violence in the DRC, with thousands arriving daily after the M23’s recent advance.
Kitenge, a 25-year-old who fled with his family before M23 reached Bukavu, shared that gunfire from armed groups forced them to escape for safety. Meanwhile, another refugee lamented the lack of essential aid, describing dire conditions as they sleep outdoors without food or shelter, appealing for humanitarian assistance.
Burundi’s Interior Minister, Martin Niteretse, announced intentions to relocate incoming refugees to eastern regions of the country to secure their safety and provide them with formal refugee status. Prior to this surge, Burundi was already home to about 90,000 Congolese refugees due to previous conflicts.
Witnesses reported an additional arrival of 500 Congolese soldiers and police at the Gatumba border, where they were disarmed. The UN’s peacekeeping mission in the DRC expressed concern regarding ongoing M23 advancements, stressing the potential for a regional conflict reminiscent of the Second Congo War, which resulted in millions of casualties.
In response to Rwandan involvement in the unrest, the United States has imposed sanctions on Rwandan government minister James Kabarebe. Rwanda, however, denies these claims and maintains that the conflict arises from threats posed by Hutu militia members in DR Congo.
The situation between Burundi and DR Congo continues to escalate, with Burundi withdrawing troops due to difficulties faced on the ground. A significant number of refugees are fleeing into Burundi, creating humanitarian challenges for the government. As M23 expands its territorial gains, concerns grow about broader regional conflict, necessitating international attention to prevent further destabilization.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
