Escalating Conflict in DRC: Rebels Claim Goma, Advance Towards Kinshasa

Rebels in DRC have claimed control of Goma and are advancing towards Bukavu, threatening Kinshasa. Supported by Rwandan troops, the M23 group’s offensive has escalated violence, resulting in numerous casualties and a worsening humanitarian crisis. The UN has highlighted concerns about the rapid movement of M23 fighters and the involvement of Rwandan soldiers.

Rebels in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have vowed to capture Kinshasa after claiming to seize Goma in North Kivu province. Supported by Rwandan troops, the M23 rebels are advancing towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, following violent clashes that led to numerous casualties. Rebel leader Corneille Nangaa stated their intention to continue their campaign, and local sources indicated that M23 fighters are approaching a vital military airport near Bukavu.

The United Nations has expressed concerns regarding the rapid movement of M23 fighters towards Bukavu, which has a significant population. UN reports highlight the presence of approximately 4,000 Rwandan soldiers assisting the M23, with allegations that Rwanda seeks to exploit the region’s resources. Rwanda maintains its actions are aimed at combating groups linked to the 1994 genocide while accusing the Congolese military of collaborating with Hutu militias threatening its security.

Despite the M23’s claims of willingness to negotiate with Kinshasa, the Congolese Defence Minister dismissed any dialogue, asserting that such plans should be immediately abandoned. The situation has prompted an emergency summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) following heightened tensions between Rwanda and South Africa, particularly after the deaths of South African soldiers in the DRC.

As the violent conflict escalates, Goma is experiencing severe infrastructure outages, including shortages of electricity and water. The ongoing M23 offensive exacerbates a humanitarian crisis, resulting in widespread food scarcity and the displacement of over 500,000 individuals this month. The International Organization for Migration warns that the situation is deteriorating rapidly, deeply affecting millions already affected by years of conflict.

The ongoing conflict in the eastern regions of the DRC has involved numerous armed groups vying for control over mineral-rich territories. The M23 group has gained notoriety for its rapid offensives and connections to Rwandan forces. The humanitarian implications of this conflict are severe, with millions displaced and exacerbated shortages of essential resources.

The current trajectory of conflict in eastern DRC presents significant threats to regional stability as rebel forces advance towards major urban centers. The involvement of Rwandan soldiers complicates the situation, as accusations of exploitation and security concerns intertwine. Without dialogue or substantial intervention, the humanitarian crisis is expected to deepen, affecting countless lives.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com