M23 rebels have taken control of Walikale, a crucial mineral-rich town in Congo, defying recent ceasefire calls by the presidents of Congo and Rwanda. Their advancement disrupts key supply routes and raises concerns over humanitarian crises as fighting escalates amid insufficient military resistance from the Congolese army. The conflict draws attention to the significant mineral resources in the region and the ongoing humanitarian challenges.
Late Wednesday, Rwanda-backed M23 rebels entered the significant mineral-rich town of Walikale in eastern Congo, defying ceasefire calls made by the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. Local residents and civil society leaders confirmed their presence, with Prince Kihangi noting that the rebels are visible at key locations within the town, indicating a stronghold in the territorial capital.
With the capture of Walikale, the M23 rebels disrupted connectivity among four eastern provinces: North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, and Maniema, effectively impairing the Congolese army’s strategic positions. Civil society activist Fiston Misona remarked on the absence of resistance from the Congolese forces, stating, “Our Congolese army is no longer fighting. It’s as if we were being sacrificed.”
The assault by the M23 follows high-level discussions in Qatar between the respective presidents of Congo and Rwanda, wherein they called for an immediate ceasefire. This development occurred after unsuccessful negotiations aimed at achieving a ceasefire with rebel leaders, who retreated following European Union sanctions.
Since January, the conflict in eastern Congo has intensified, especially after the M23’s seizure of Goma and Bukavu. The M23 forms part of a multitude of armed groups in the region that compete for influence in an area rich in resources, leading to one of the most severe humanitarian crises globally, displacing over seven million individuals.
Reportedly bolstered by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, the M23 rebels have expressed intentions to advance towards Kinshasa, the capital of Congo. The U.N. Human Rights Council has recently initiated an investigation into human rights abuses committed by both sides, including serious allegations of violence.
Walikale is notably rich in mineral resources, housing the largest tin deposits in Congo along with several gold mines. The Bisie tin mine, essential to North Kivu’s tin exports, has reportedly suspended operations in response to the rebel advancements.
The continuous escalation of conflict in eastern Congo, particularly with the M23 rebels’ entry into Walikale, highlights the urgent need for effective conflict resolution. The situation remains precarious following high-level ceasefire discussions that yielded little success. The humanitarian crisis further exacerbates the challenges faced by millions, with the international community urged to respond decisively to the deteriorating conditions.
Original Source: apnews.com
