M23 rebels have captured the airport near Bukavu amidst a worsening humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite international demands for peace, their advances have led to mass displacements. Local leaders report ongoing fighting, while regional tensions with Rwanda continue to escalate as both countries exchange accusations over the conflict.
The M23 rebels have successfully taken control of the airport serving Bukavu, a significant city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, advancing despite international calls for a ceasefire and renewed peace discussions. Their offensive has resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands within recent weeks as tensions escalate in the region.
Last month, the M23, reportedly supported by Rwanda, captured Goma, another key city rich in minerals. During the confrontation at the Kavumu airport, the Congolese army and its allied militia retreated with little resistance.
Currently, the M23 are positioned approximately 30 kilometers from Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. Jean Elekano, the deputy governor, indicated that intense fighting is ongoing between government forces and the M23 on the city’s outskirts, though he noted that the army remains in control and is countering the rebel efforts.
Residents of Bukavu have expressed rising panic amidst this turmoil, with local authorities advising them to stay indoors as a precautionary measure. This escalation coincides with an impending African Union summit in Ethiopia, where leaders are expected to address the conflict.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, head of the African Union commission, has emphasized the necessity of observing a ceasefire, asserting that military actions will not resolve the ongoing conflict. Furthermore, there are allegations against Rwanda regarding its support for the rebels, which the Rwandan government has denied, asserting its primary concern is national security. President Paul Kagame has dismissed any threats of sanctions amid these tensions, while the Congolese government accuses Rwanda of encroaching upon its mineral-rich territories.
The advances of the M23 rebels in eastern DR Congo have exacerbated an already dire humanitarian crisis marked by significant displacements and rising fears among civilians. International calls for a ceasefire remain unheeded, complicating the situation further. As regional leaders gather to address these issues, the relationship between DR Congo and Rwanda remains strained, with ongoing accusations complicating the narrative.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
