Burundi’s military is deploying in Eastern DRC amidst UK aid suspension to Rwanda due to M23 rebel activities. The region has experienced extensive violence, with the M23 recently seizing key cities. Efforts by African leaders aim to mediate peace and address the humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict.
Burundi’s troops, allied with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), are actively deploying in Eastern DRC following the UK’s suspension of most direct aid to Rwanda. This suspension is a response to the resurgence of M23 rebels, alleged to be supported by Rwandan soldiers, who have significantly expanded their territorial control in the mineral-rich region since late 2021. The ongoing conflict has persisted for nearly thirty years, resulting in millions of casualties.
The UK government emphasized that while Rwanda has legitimate security concerns, military solutions are unacceptable and a political resolution is essential. The aid suspension will remain until considerable progress toward peace is seen. The M23 fighters have recently captured the provincial capital, Bukavu, and the city of Goma, the latter having fallen under their control last month.
The advancing M23 forces have met minimal resistance from the DRC military, whose personnel reportedly committed atrocities during their retreat. M23 fighters approached Uvira, near the Burundian border, while Burundi’s troops mobilized to counter their advances. Observations indicated movements of heavily armed Burundian soldiers toward Luvungi, with reports of local militia allied to Kinshasa joining them.
Despite calm conditions reported in Kamanyola, residents continue to flee, apprehensive of the potential for renewed violence. South African troops who sustained injuries in Eastern DRC have returned home for medical treatment amid the escalating conflict. A contingent from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) had been deployed earlier this year to assist in stabilizing the region.
In a proactive effort for peace, African nations appointed three former presidents as facilitators to mediate the situation, coinciding with the arrival of an International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor to investigate the violence. The ICC prosecutor expressed deep concern about the unfolding situation, acknowledging the critical state in Eastern Congo.
Two regional coalitions, the East African Community (EAC) and SADC, have united to negotiate a ceasefire, appointing notable leaders to this initiative. Their primary objectives include an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian aid, and enhancing security at Goma’s airport. The DRC’s Prime Minister reported alarming casualty figures in the region, revealing over 7,000 deaths since the beginning of the year.
The situation in Eastern DRC remains precarious as Burundi deploys troops in response to the advancing M23 rebels backed by Rwanda. The UK’s aid suspension signifies international disapproval of military escalations, and there are ongoing efforts toward a political resolution. The tragic loss of life continues to escalate in a region long plagued by violence, and urgent humanitarian intervention is paramount. Concerns raised by the ICC and the joint efforts of EAC and SADC highlight the importance of achieving a ceasefire and restoring stability.
Original Source: www.kulr8.com
