The Congo War Security Review from March 11, 2025, details M23’s advances in South Kivu and North Kivu, including territorial gains and militia defections. The report addresses ongoing military engagements and the political response from the Southern African Development Community, indicating the complex and evolving nature of the conflict in eastern DRC.
The Congo War Security Review, dated March 11, 2025, provides an overview of ongoing military activities and developments relating to the conflict between the M23 militia, its Rwandan allies, and pro-Congolese government forces. The report emphasizes a significant advance by M23 towards Bukavu, enabling connections to multiple fronts within South Kivu and reinforcing its position in the mineral-rich Walikale district of North Kivu.
Notably, M23’s efforts included capturing critical territories south of Bukavu, with advancements reported on March 10. This included the capture of several villages, notably the capital of the Kaziba chiefdom, which enhances M23’s operational capabilities in the region, allowing for strategic movements towards supporting allied militias.
On the northern front, defections from militia groups such as Mai Mai Kabidon and Mai Mai Kifuafua to M23 have stirred controversy. Both groups repudiated reports of defections, citing videos that depicted their members denouncing the M23 alignment. Congolese media flagged this as a considerable setback for the Congolese army, noting that the defection represented a significant loss of strategic strength.
The M23 continues to assert its influence by engaging in offensive operations within the Walikale district. The group reportedly secured control over the town of Kashebere, further complicating security dynamics in the region. Meanwhile, clashes between M23 and Congolese forces persist, illustrating the continuing volatility within the area.
On the political spectrum, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) is set to convene a virtual summit to address the security challenges in the eastern DRC, reviewing previous recommendations regarding the security force’s deployment during their meeting on March 13. This summit highlights the international concern over the escalating conflict and the need for coordinated responses.
The Congo War Security Review underscores the intensifying conflict involving M23 forces in eastern DRC, notably their advancement towards strategic locations such as Bukavu and Walikale. Additionally, the controversy surrounding militia defections and the Southern African Development Community’s upcoming summit signals the urgent need for a cohesive and robust response to the evolving security situation in the region. Continued monitoring and analysis will be essential to understand the broader implications of these developments.
Original Source: www.criticalthreats.org
