Over 110,000 people have been displaced in eastern Congo due to M23 rebels forcibly closing camps. The recent capture of Goma led to significant casualties, and the issuance of an ultimatum for displaced individuals to return to their villages poses further humanitarian challenges. Aid organizations caution that the situation could worsen as violence continues despite a declared ceasefire.
In recent days, over 110,000 individuals have been displaced in eastern Congo due to actions taken by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, who have forcibly shut down settlement camps, according to reports from the United Nations and local sources. This upheaval is a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict over control of the mineral-rich region.
M23 rebels captured Goma, eastern Congo’s largest city, in late January, resulting in the deaths of at least 2,000 people in related clashes. The rebels issued an ultimatum, demanding displaced persons abandon camps and return to their villages, a move that the UN’s humanitarian agency, OCHA, characterized as an active measure to restore order in Goma.
Despite the M23’s assertion that these return orders were voluntary, many have left their camps to relocate to villages that, according to aid groups, are considerably difficult to access for humanitarian relief. Displaced families in Goma were observed disassembling their shelters and gathering their meager possessions.
One such displaced individual, Sibomana Safari, expressed despair at the situation: “I am surprised because we are asked to leave, yet I have nothing to give to the children,” illustrating the dire circumstances facing those affected. The region has seen over 500,000 people displaced amid the conflict, indicating a worsening humanitarian crisis.
Emergency coordinators from various humanitarian organizations, like Doctors Without Borders, have raised alarms regarding the situation’s fluidity and potential for further escalation. Individuals leaving the Bulengo camp, such as Kwimana Sifa, have similarly conveyed their anguish, wishing for peace in the face of their precarious existence.
While M23 declared a unilateral ceasefire, hostilities continue to persist, with ongoing skirmishes reported as the rebels advance towards Bukavu, where they have threatened action in response to alleged killings. “The situation in Bukavu is deteriorating dangerously,” said M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, emphasizing their commitment to protect civilians amid the violence.
The situation in eastern Congo is grave, with over 110,000 individuals displaced by the actions of M23 rebels who have forcibly closed camps. Humanitarian organizations are deeply concerned about the escalating crisis and the potential for further deterioration as displaced families face dire living conditions and a lack of aid. Despite declarations of a ceasefire, sporadic violence persists, reflecting ongoing tensions in the region.
Original Source: apnews.com
