The M23 rebel group’s advance toward Goma has displaced over 178,000 people in two weeks. The rebels captured Minova, a strategic town, heightening local fears. Accusations of Rwandan support for M23 persist amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting millions in eastern Congo.
The M23 rebel group’s offensive towards Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, has led to the displacement of over 178,000 individuals within the last fortnight, as reported by the United Nations. As the rebels approach Goma, which they previously seized in 2012, Congolese officials confirmed their capture of Minova, a strategic town for Goma’s supply chain, intensifying fears of further conflict.
The M23 group is among nearly 100 armed factions contending for control in the mineral-rich eastern region of Congo. This enduring conflict has contributed to one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, affecting over 7 million people and leading to widespread displacement.
Accusations of Rwandan support for the M23 rebels, comprised primarily of ethnic Tutsis dissidents from the Congolese army, have been made by Congo, the United States, and UN experts. However, the Rwandan government has refuted these allegations, asserting it maintains neutrality in the conflict.
Recent clashes near Minova have prompted a new wave of displacement, with thousands arriving in Goma via crowded boats. Many evacuees arrive burdened with meager possessions as they escape the violence in their hometowns. Some have fled the Nzulo camp due to the imminent threat posed by advancing rebel forces.
Witnesses, such as David Kasereka, described the chaotic escape from Minova, exclaiming, “We do not know where we are going, because everywhere, the bombs are following us.” Another displaced individual, Nadège Bauma, explained her decision to leave the camp due to the ongoing violence, stating concerns regarding safety as the M23 nears Ngwiro.
The provincial governor of South Kivu, Jean-Jacques Purusi, has confirmed recent rebel advancements, including the capture of critical mining towns in both South and North Kivu provinces. The Congolese military acknowledged these developments, citing “breakthroughs” in the contested areas.
The M23 rebel group has re-emerged as a powerful force in eastern Congo, significantly impacting local populations and exacerbating an already critical humanitarian crisis. The group’s actions, alongside accusations of foreign support and the involvement of multiple armed factions, contribute to the prolonged instability in the region. Goma serves as a pivotal humanitarian hub, making its security essential for both local and international stakeholders.
The ongoing military actions by the M23 rebel group have resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo, with over 178,000 individuals fleeing in recent weeks. As the conflict escalates and threatens Goma, both local authorities and international observers remain deeply concerned about the potential for further violence and displacement. The complex dynamics involving foreign assistance allegations, local governance, and varied armed factions continue to challenge efforts toward stability in the region.
Original Source: apnews.com
