Burundi has initiated a significant withdrawal of its troops from the DRC as conflict intensifies with the M23 rebels gaining control of strategic areas. This situation has resulted in an influx of refugees into Burundi, marking the largest such movement in 25 years. The UN and other officials express concern over regional stability amidst rising tensions and humanitarian crises.
The withdrawal of Burundian troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been expedited amid escalating tensions, according to a senior military source. This decision follows significant territorial gains made by the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group, particularly in the eastern regions of the DRC. The United Nations has raised alarms regarding the implications of this conflict, highlighting the potential for broader regional destabilization.
In recent developments, over 10,000 Burundian soldiers were deployed to assist the Congolese army in combating the M23 and several armed factions. However, reports indicate that the Burundian forces are currently facing severe shortages of supplies, such as ammunition and food. A Burundian military officer noted the challenges of working alongside disorganized Congolese forces, resulting in diminished capacity to sustain their operations.
The humanitarian crisis is deepening as refugees flee from the DRC into Burundi, marking the largest influx in 25 years. The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, estimates that approximately 30,000 individuals have crossed the border recently. Many are escaping the violence instigated by the M23’s activities, which are now perilously close to Burundi’s borders, especially after the group’s movements near Bukavu.
Survivors describe harrowing experiences that compelled them to leave their homes. One refugee recounted fleeing with his family amidst gunfire, underscoring the fear for their lives. Another woman described a dire situation where she and fellow refugees lack basic necessities such as food and shelter, and they are in urgent need of assistance.
The Burundian government aims to transfer refugees to eastern regions for safety, and they will receive formal refugee status. The growing number of refugees adds to the approximately 90,000 individuals already residing in Burundi, having fled previous conflicts. Concurrently, around 500 Congolese security personnel entered Burundi and were temporarily disarmed and searched.
Concerns regarding regional conflict escalation persist, with UN officials warning that M23 is advancing towards key border junctions between the DRC, Rwanda, and Burundi. The potential for a renewed regional conflict evokes grave memories of the Second Congo War. In response, the United States has imposed sanctions against a Rwandan official implicated in supporting M23, while Rwanda maintains that it faces threats from Hutu fighters operating within the DRC.
In summary, the complex crisis in the eastern DRC continues to unfold, exacerbated by the withdrawal of Burundian forces and the advancing M23 rebels. Burundi faces an unprecedented wave of refugees as thousands flee conflict, highlighting the urgent humanitarian needs. The international community remains concerned about the broader implications, fearing a potential escalation into regional violence. Effective responses and support for refugees are crucial to mitigate the burgeoning crisis.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
