DR Congo Rebels Capture Goma, Threaten Advance on Kinshasa

Rwanda-backed rebels have captured Goma and are advancing towards Bukavu in the DRC, threatening to reach Kinshasa. The United Nations reports that around 4,000 Rwandan soldiers support the M23 group, exacerbating tensions in the already unstable eastern region. A humanitarian crisis looms over the displacement of hundreds of thousands due to renewed fighting, prompting urgent regional discussions.

Rwanda-backed rebels in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have captured Goma, a significant city in the eastern region, and are advancing south towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. Rebel leader Corneille Nangaa has stated their intention is to march towards the national capital, Kinshasa. This rapid advance follows a violent escalation of conflict, marked by numerous casualties and the evacuation of Congolese soldiers from Goma.

M23 fighters are reportedly near a critical military airport in Kavumu, approximately 40 kilometers north of Bukavu. The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the M23’s swift movements toward Bukavu, which is home to approximately two million residents. UN experts assert that about 4,000 Rwandan soldiers are assisting the M23 rebels, who are among over 100 armed groups operating in eastern DRC.

Tensions remain high as the Congolese government accuses Rwanda of exploiting the region’s rich mineral resources. Rwanda defends its military presence by alleging it seeks to eliminate groups linked to the 1994 genocide and suggests that the Congolese military collaborates with militias targeting Tutsis. Despite claims of openness to dialogue from the rebels, the Congolese Defense Minister has firmly rejected any negotiation proposals.

In response to the escalating situation, the Southern African Development Community convened an emergency summit in Harare amid rising tensions between Rwanda and South Africa, especially after the death of 13 South African soldiers in eastern DRC. Rwanda’s Foreign Minister has warned of potential self-defense actions against any coalition forces, including South Africa.

The ongoing conflict has exacerbated a serious humanitarian crisis, leading to food and water shortages and displacing approximately half a million individuals this month. The International Organization for Migration has noted that millions were already affected by protracted conflict in the eastern DRC, indicating that the humanitarian situation is deteriorating markedly due to renewed hostilities.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been embroiled in conflict for decades, particularly in the resource-rich eastern regions, where numerous armed groups compete for control. The M23 rebel group, which has previously engaged in violence and territorial claims, has resumed its offensive with the alleged backing of Rwanda. The geopolitical implications of this conflict include tensions with neighboring countries and a rising humanitarian crisis, as civilian populations bear the brunt of the violence and instability. The DRC’s government has constantly grappled with external support for rebel factions, notably accusing Rwanda of not only providing military assistance but also exploiting the nation’s valuable mineral resources. Efforts at creating sustainable peace have been hindered by this cycle of violence and the complex historical context of ethnic strife in the region.

The conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is reaching a critical juncture, with M23 rebels advancing rapidly and expressing an intent to capture the capital, Kinshasa. The involvement of Rwandan forces complicates an already dire humanitarian situation, as the violence generates widespread displacement and suffering among civilians. The DRC government’s rejection of dialogue with the rebels indicates a potential for further escalation, while regional diplomacy seeks to address the growing unrest.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com