Fighting has resumed in South Kivu as Congolese troops clash with M23 rebels, allegedly supported by Rwanda. The conflict escalates ahead of a crucial summit involving regional leaders aimed at addressing these tensions. The humanitarian toll in Goma is severe, with thousands reported dead amidst widespread destruction and calls for urgent action to prevent further escalations.
Renewed fighting has erupted in South Kivu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), involving government forces and the M23 rebel group. The clashes were reported in Nyabibwe, a mining town, where Congolese authorities accused the M23, allegedly backed by Rwandan troops, of violating a ceasefire proclaimed on February 3, 2025. Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya confirmed that military positions were attacked early Wednesday near the Kalehe territory.
As the fighting escalated, Congolese officials reported Rwandan reinforcements crossing the border to aid the M23’s offensive. The capture of Nyabibwe positions the rebels closer to Bukavu, the provincial capital. Corneille Nangaa, the leader of the M23 coalition, stated, “They attacked us and we defended ourselves,” following the group’s advancement into Nyabibwe amidst ongoing military tensions.
The humanitarian impact in the city of Goma has been devastating. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported at least 2,800 civilian casualties due to the conflict, with critical infrastructure suffering severe damage. The International Criminal Court is monitoring possible war crimes. Local leaders are calling for regional talks to mitigate the crisis as hospitals overflow and bodies remain on the streets.
In Kinshasa, Congolese lawmakers convened to address the urgent crisis, ahead of an international summit involving Rwandan President Paul Kagame and DRC President Felix Tshisekedi. The summit, part of an East African Community meeting in Dar es Salaam, aims to discuss tensions attributed to Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 rebels, whom the DRC accuses of exploiting valuable mineral resources.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced ongoing conflict, particularly in its eastern regions, due to the activities of various armed groups, including the M23 rebellion. Tensions with neighboring Rwanda complicate the situation, as Congo accuses Rwanda of supporting these groups to gain access to mineral wealth. The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by violence, leading to substantial civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, necessitating urgent regional diplomatic efforts.
In conclusion, the resurgence of conflict in South Kivu underscores the complex security situation in eastern DRC, with significant implications for civilian safety and regional stability. The involvement of Rwandan forces in support of the M23 raises critical concerns about sovereignty and resource exploitation. As international bodies monitor developments, the urgent need for diplomatic dialogue and humanitarian relief remains paramount to alleviate the unfolding humanitarian catastrophe.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
