The escalating conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has refugees like Jordan Bita risking their lives to avoid conscription by M23 rebels. Many individuals have sought refuge in Burundi, where humanitarian efforts are strained by the increasing number of displaced persons and the potential for tensions to rise between refugees and locals. The situation requires urgent international support and attention.
In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, men such as Jordan Bita risk their lives swimming across perilous rivers to avoid forced conscription by M23 rebel groups. At 25, Bita narrowly escaped the clutches of the rebels, who urged him to join their fight against the government, while utilizing the forest to remain undetected. His perilous crossing of the Rusizi River marks a critical phase in a treacherous journey towards safety in neighboring Burundi.
Burundian troops actively monitor the river banks, as approximately 70,000 individuals have sought refuge in Burundi over the past month due to escalating conflicts and advances by the M23 rebels. These rebels recently seized Goma in North Kivu and Bukavu, South Kivu’s capital, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Refugees fleeing such hostile environments face numerous dangers, including treacherous river crossings that not only threaten their safety but have also led to numerous drownings.
Another refugee, Amani Sebakungu, expressed the dire situation: “In the river, you just have to take heart and say if I die or survive, so be it. God willed I crossed safely.” As tensions rise, Burundian authorities impose restrictions on men attempting to cross into their territory, compelling them to remain in Uvira, vulnerable to M23 aggression.
Bilateral relations between Burundi and DR Congo are strained due to shared ethnic tensions. Burundi has deployed over 10,000 troops to support DR Congo’s fight against the M23 rebels, a military presence that reflects the deep historical conflicts the region has faced. Humanitarian officials express concerns regarding the growing number of refugees entering Burundi and the need for adequate support to avoid unrest between incoming refugees and local communities.
Notable stories of hardship emerge from survivors like Clarice Kacindi, who mourns her three-year-old child swept away during a river crossing. She illustrates the grave realities faced by many fleeing the M23, stating, “M23 are making our lives very difficult. They must stop this war.” Overall, this crisis continues to produce dire humanitarian challenges requiring international attention, as vast numbers of individuals identify safe haven across borders.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has forced many individuals, particularly men, to risk their lives through perilous journeys in search of safety in Burundi. The situation has been aggravated by M23 rebel advancements, leading to severe humanitarian crises and increasing numbers of refugees. The responsibilities and challenges for Burundi, as host to thousands of refugees, necessitate urgent international humanitarian support to ensure the protection and well-being of those fleeing violence.
Original Source: www.bbc.com