M23 rebels have captured the airport in Kavumu as they advance towards Bukavu in eastern DR Congo, causing significant displacement and unrest. International calls for a ceasefire are ongoing, but fighting continues. The situation is complicated by accusations involving Rwanda’s military presence and support for the rebels, as local authorities report rising panic among residents.
In the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), the M23 rebel group has effectively taken control of the airport in Kavumu, located near the significant city of Bukavu. This advance occurs amidst international appeals for a ceasefire and the resumption of peace negotiations. As a result of the escalating conflict, hundreds of thousands have been displaced in recent weeks, highlighting the severe humanitarian impact of the situation.
The M23 insurgents, backed by Rwanda, previously seized Goma, an essential city in the mineral-rich eastern area. During the recent confrontation at the Kavumu airport, Congolese forces and their allied militia reportedly withdrew with minimal resistance. Currently, M23 rebels are situated approximately 30 kilometers from Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, where the local deputy governor, Jean Elekano, reported heavy clashes between the army and the insurgents at the city’s outskirts.
Panic and fear have been reported among Bukavu’s residents, prompting local authorities to advise staying indoors. The latest developments arise as African heads of state convene for a summit in Ethiopia. The African Union’s commission head, Moussa Faki Mahamat, emphasized the necessity of maintaining a ceasefire and contended that military actions would not resolve the ongoing issues. He expressed hope for a united African approach toward this crisis.
Rwanda, which has been accused of providing support to the rebels, has denied these allegations. President Paul Kagame asserts that the primary concern for Rwanda is national security, stating that the country faces threats from Hutu rebels located in DR Congo. In turn, the Congolese government has accused Rwanda of encroaching upon valuable mineral territory within its borders.
The conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, notably involving M23 rebels’ advancement towards Bukavu, has raised significant international concern. The humanitarian crisis has intensified with mass displacements and fears among civilians. Despite calls for a ceasefire from regional leaders, the situation remains precarious, compounded by Rwanda’s alleged involvement and claims surrounding security threats, further complicating the path towards resolution.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
