M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, entered the town of Walikale in eastern Congo, defying recent ceasefire calls from the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. Heavy fighting was reported, with concerns raised regarding the capabilities of the Congolese army. The situation reflects a continued escalation of conflict in a resource-rich region that has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis.
On a recent Wednesday, Rwanda-backed M23 rebels entered Walikale, a strategic town in eastern Congo, despite a plea for ceasefire from the leaders of both Congo and Rwanda. According to local residents and activists, the rebels were reported to be at significant locations within the town, indicating a strong presence in the regional capital. This move by the M23 rebels has disrupted vital transportation links among four provinces: North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, and Maniema.
Eyewitnesses reported heavy artillery fire throughout the day, diminishing to sporadic gunfire by evening. Activist Fiston Misona expressed concerns for the Congolese army, suggesting their lack of engagement: “Our Congolese army is no longer fighting; it’s as if we were being sacrificed.” No statements have been issued by either the M23 or the Congolese government in response to these developments.
This surge in violence follows a meeting in Qatar between Congo’s and Rwanda’s presidents, who advocated for an unconditional ceasefire. This came after previous ceasefire negotiations failed, leading to the M23 rebels’ withdrawal from discussions due to EU sanctions on their leaders. The conflict has intensified since January, with the M23 advancing from Goma and Bukavu.
The M23 is among approximately 100 armed factions competing for control in eastern Congo, a region rich in minerals and marred by ongoing humanitarian crises, having displaced over seven million people. Reports suggest that these rebels enjoy support from around 4,000 Rwandan troops, with aspirations to reach as far as Kinshasa, the capital of Congo.
Significantly, the Walikale region is abundant in resources, particularly the largest tin deposits in the country, as well as notable gold mines. The disruption caused by rebel advances led to Alphamin Resources temporarily ceasing operations at the Bisie tin mine, critical for North Kivu’s tin exports, reflecting the intense impact of the ongoing conflict on local economies and humanitarian conditions.
The entry of M23 rebels into Walikale underscores the escalating conflict in eastern Congo, eventuating despite a call for a ceasefire. The situation reflects the ongoing struggle for resources amidst humanitarian crises, with significant implications for the local economy and stability in the region. As fighting continues and humanitarian considerations remain dire, the international community watches closely, urging a peaceful resolution to this longstanding conflict.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
