In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, rising violence from M23 rebels has forced men like Jordan Bita to risk their lives swimming across the dangerous Rusizi river to escape conscription. Nearly 70,000 people have fled to Burundi, facing perilous conditions and loss, particularly among families with young children. The ongoing conflict intensifies the strain on Burundian resources and raises fears of escalating ethnic tensions in the region.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), young men like Jordan Bita are risking their lives to escape conscription by the M23 rebels. Bita swam across the treacherous Rusizi river, which separates DRC from Burundi, carrying minimal possessions to evade the fighting. He described his journey through the forest to avoid being captured by the M23 fighters, who are forcing locals to join their ranks.
The conflict has intensified in recent weeks, with M23 rebels capturing key cities such as Goma and Bukavu. Nearly 70,000 people have fled to Burundi amidst this turmoil, with Burundian military personnel monitoring the border closely. Bita was thoroughly searched for weapons upon entering Burundi, bringing essential food supplies to his family already in a refugee camp.
Many individuals attempting to cross the river face perilous conditions, and drownings have been reported. Clarice Kacindi tragically lost her child during her attempt to escape. As she recounted her loss at a makeshift camp in Rugombo’s football stadium, she lamented the hardships imposed by the ongoing conflict and called for an end to the war.
Overcrowded conditions in the stadium reflect the dire circumstances for the refugees, with limited food and many sleeping in shared tents. The situation at the border post in Gatumba is similarly chaotic, dominated by people fleeing into Burundi. Refugees, primarily women and children, encounter barriers, particularly men who are being asked to remain in Uvira to defend against the M23 rebels.
Burundi has deployed over 10,000 troops to assist in combating the M23. The escalating conflict raises concerns for the safety of Burundian citizens, especially with the rebel group approaching Uvira, a town critical for security. As Burundi grapples with an influx of refugees, the potential for ethnic tensions looms.
Brigitte Mukanga-Eno from the UN refugee agency emphasizes the urgency of providing support to accommodate refugees and prevent potential clashes with local populations. Meanwhile, refugees like eighty-seven-year-old Magega Mwarui recount numerous past experiences of fleeing violence. Charlotte Odile, a mother of four, seeks refuge in order to ensure a stable future for her children after losing her husband to rebel violence.
Additional coverage regarding the multifaceted dynamics of the conflict is documented beyond this report, reflecting a humanitarian crisis on the brink.
The situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo remains dire as individuals flee violent conscription by M23 rebels, risking perilous journeys across the Rusizi river to reach safety in Burundi. With escalating conflict leading to significant refugee movements, the local and international community faces challenges in accommodating the influx and ensuring the welfare of those affected. The urgent need for humanitarian assistance continues as tensions linger in the region, compounded by historical ethnic rivalries and ongoing violence.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
