Six African peacekeepers, three from Malawi and three from South Africa, were killed in separate encounters with M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The clashes led to 14 additional injuries among South African soldiers. The situation is worsening due to ongoing violence, resulting in tens of thousands being displaced.
In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, six soldiers from Malawi and South Africa, part of a peacekeeping mission, were killed during separate encounters with rebels, as reported on Saturday. Maj. Emmanuel Mlelemba of the Malawi Defense Force confirmed that three Malawian soldiers were killed in a rebel ambush, with plans for their repatriation underway. Additionally, three South African soldiers were killed, and 14 others sustained injuries during clashes with M23 rebels, amid the visit of Defense Minister Angie Motshekga to the area.
The South African National Defense Force (SANDF) is part of the Southern African Development Community Mission (SAMIDRC) aimed at supporting the Congolese government in combatting the increasingly aggressive M23 rebel group, which is reportedly supported by Rwanda. The M23 group has captured territory and is advancing toward Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, heightening regional tensions despite Rwandan President Paul Kagame’s denial of backing for the rebels.
As violence escalates, tens of thousands have been displaced from their homes due to the heightened conflict between the Congolese army and the M23 rebels that reignited late last year. According to reports, nearly six million lives have been lost in the ongoing conflicts in Congo since 1996, with the UN’s International Organization for Migration noting that around seven million individuals are internally displaced within the country due to persistent violence and natural disasters.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been a site of enduring conflict, characterized by numerous violent outbreaks and rebel groups, notably the M23. Founded in 2012, the M23 group has sought to control territories in eastern Congo and has been involved in various skirmishes with government forces. The involvement of foreign nations, particularly Rwanda, and the participation of regional peacekeeping forces reflect the complexities of the conflict, which has caused widespread displacement and humanitarian crises. Despite international efforts and peacekeeping mandates, stability remains elusive in this resource-rich but war-torn nation.
The recent clash resulting in the deaths of six peacekeepers highlights the precarious security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. As the M23 rebel group intensifies its offensive, regional peacekeeping missions face significant challenges to maintain stability. The ongoing violence illustrates the plight of displaced populations and underscores the urgent need for a resolution to the ongoing conflict, which has long-lasting implications for both the region and the international community.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
