The M23, backed by Rwanda, has captured key territories in North Kivu, DR Congo, including Minova and Sake, displacing over 400,000 individuals. Their focus on controlling rich natural resources, particularly coltan, has resulted in increased funding for their military operations. Recent violent incidents, including the deaths of peacekeepers, underscore the crisis as foreign troops reportedly support M23 rebels.
The March 23 Movement (M23), backed by Rwanda, has gained significant ground in North Kivu, DR Congo, by capturing Minova and briefly taking Sake, although they have faced pushback from Congolese forces. The M23’s aim is to expand control over the region’s natural resources, particularly coltan, gold, and cobalt, a pursuit that has displaced over 400,000 people as they flee violence toward Rwanda. The UN peacekeepers are assisting local forces to protect civilians caught amidst the conflict.
Recently, M23 rebels unsuccessfully attempted to seize Goma, leading to the deaths of 13 international peacekeepers. This prompted an urgent assembly of the UN Security Council. Despite a ceasefire brokered by Angola in August 2024, hostilities resumed in October, following failed peace negotiations between the DR Congo and Rwanda later in December. Interventions by organized militias further complicate the conflict, as various groups vie for territorial control.
M23’s strategy appears aimed at dominating areas rich in resources such as coltan, particularly in the Walikale region. The conflict has increased the M23’s revenue to approximately $300,000 monthly from taxes on coltan mining in Rutshuru and Masisi. Furthermore, the Congolese government has accused M23 of illicitly exporting coltan to Rwanda, with allegations of 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan troops supporting M23 on the ground.
An ongoing analysis by the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project indicates the M23 has been involved in nearly 1,700 violent incidents, leading to substantial casualties since its resurgence in November 2021. The complex interaction of local and international forces continues to fuel the instability in the region, as humanitarian crises deepen amid ongoing conflict.
The article reviews the current state of conflict involving the M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo, focusing on their expansion and control of mineral-rich areas in North Kivu. The backdrop involves regional tensions exacerbated by external support from Rwanda and local militia dynamics. As the M23 seeks to capitalize on valuable natural resources, a humanitarian crisis emerges, displacing thousands and drawing international condemnation and intervention.
In summary, the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, driven by the M23’s quest for resource dominance, remains a critical issue marked by significant humanitarian impacts and international implications. The recent military advances and subsequent casualties highlight the volatility of the region, with calls for renewed diplomatic efforts to stabilize and protect vulnerable populations caught in the crossfire.
Original Source: www.dw.com
