In eastern DRC, men are risking their lives to escape conscription by M23 rebels by crossing the dangerous Rusizi River into Burundi. This migration has seen nearly 70,000 individuals fleeing the escalating violence. Refugees describe harrowing experiences, including loss during crossings and harsh living conditions at makeshift camps. The situation is critical as international support is urgently needed to improve conditions and ensure safety in the region.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), men are taking harrowing risks to escape conscription by M23 rebel groups as violence escalates. Jordan Bita, a 25-year-old, braved the perilous currents of the Rusizi River, which separates DRC from Burundi, carrying a few possessions in a plastic bag. This dangerous crossing was part of his desperate attempt to find refuge in Burundi as M23 forces captured major cities like Goma and Bukavu.
As the conflict intensifies, nearly 70,000 individuals have fled to Burundi over the last month, escaping the heightened violence. Bita described his cautious passage through forests to avoid detection by M23 fighters, who compel men to join their ranks for combat. Upon arriving in Burundi, he was subjected to thorough inspections by military personnel, ensuring individuals did not cross with weapons.
Another refugee named Amani Sebakungu shared his terrifying experience of swimming across the river, stating, “In the river you just have to take heart and say if I die or survive so be it. God willed I crossed safely.” Unfortunately, many have not been as fortunate; at least 20 have perished while attempting the crossing, highlighting the peril of the situation.
Clarice Kacindi recounted the loss of her three-year-old child during the river crossing, expressing her despair over the ongoing conflict, stating, “M23 are making our lives very difficult. They must stop this war.” Refugees in Burundian camps face harsh conditions, sharing limited shelter and food resources, with tents often overcrowded, accommodating as many as 25 people.
At the main border post in Gatumba, men are reportedly barred from crossing into Burundi and are ordered to remain in Uvira, where they are intended to aid in city defense against advancing M23 forces. Burundi has deployed over 10,000 troops in DRC to assist local military forces, as concerns grow over the implications of sustained M23 control in the region.
Decades of ethnic tensions exacerbate the situation as Burundian officials worry about the potential rise of local rebel groups should M23 take hold in South Kivu. Brigitte Mukanga-Eno from the UN refugee agency noted the unprecedented influx of refugees, urging international support to improve the conditions at the camps and prevent potential conflicts between refugees and host communities.
Eighty-seven-year-old Magega Mwarui shared her distressing history of fleeing conflicts, stating, “I have fled to Burundi so many times. We cross this river carrying the little belongings we have left.” Charlotte Odile, who lost her husband to M23 violence, expressed hope for a safe future for her children, emphasizing the critical need for peace in the region.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC has resulted in significant suffering as thousands flee to Burundi to escape conscription and violence from M23 rebels. This humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by perilous river crossings and overcrowded refugee camps, where basic needs remain unmet. The international community must respond to provide the necessary support to both refugees and the host communities as tensions escalate between neighboring countries.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
