Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have advanced into Walikale, a mineral-rich town in eastern Congo, ignoring ceasefire calls from Congolese and Rwandan leaders. This escalation follows failed negotiations for a ceasefire, with significant implications for regional stability and humanitarian conditions. Walikale is crucial for mineral resources, with ongoing concerns for displaced civilians.
On March 20, 2025, Rwandan-backed rebels advanced into the mineral-rich town of Walikale, defying ceasefire appeals from the leaders of Congo and Rwanda. This incursion is part of the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, which saw a significant escalation after the M23 rebels seized the city of Goma earlier this year and the town of Bukavu in February.
The recent push into Walikale followed a summit in Qatar between the presidents of Congo and Rwanda, where they called for an immediate ceasefire. However, negotiations for a ceasefire faltered as M23 commanders withdrew following the announcement of EU sanctions on rebel leaders. Control of Walikale would allow the rebels to dominate a vital transportation route connecting four eastern provinces, thereby threatening Congolese army positions.
Residents reported heavy artillery fire throughout the day, which faded into sporadic gunfire by evening. A local civil society activist conveyed the despair, stating, “Our Congolese army is no longer fighting; it’s as if we were being sacrificed.” There were no immediate statements from either the M23 or the Congolese government regarding the situation.
Walikale is pivotal for its mineral resources, notably tin and gold. The Bisie tin mine, located near the town, plays a crucial role in regional exports. In light of the escalating violence, the mine’s operator announced a temporary suspension of operations.
President Felix Tshisekedi expressed his willingness to negotiate over critical minerals, seeking American support for security in the face of ongoing turmoil, stating, “I think that the U.S. is able to use either pressure or sanctions to make sure that armed groups who are in … (Congo) can be kept at bay.”
M23 is among about 100 armed factions competing for resources in eastern Congo, aided by around 4,000 Rwandan troops according to U.N. experts. This protracted conflict has resulted in over 7 million people being displaced.
A commission was established by the U.N. Human Rights Council to investigate claims of atrocities, while aid groups like Doctors Without Borders reported being affected by the conflict, noting their facilities were damaged amidst the violence. They warned of a potential influx of casualties as the local population fled Walikale in fear of the ongoing hostilities.
The conflict in eastern Congo continues to escalate, with Rwanda-backed M23 rebels advancing into the town of Walikale, disregarding ceasefire agreements. This situation highlights the critical humanitarian crisis in the region and the ongoing struggles over resource control, exacerbated by external influences and internal strife. Both local citizens and international observers await further developments, emphasizing the urgent need for peace and stability in the area.
Original Source: halifax.citynews.ca
