Rwanda-Backed Rebels Advance in Eastern Congo Amid Humanitarian Crisis

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have intensified their presence in eastern Congo, capturing Goma and causing significant humanitarian concerns. The U.N. reports increasing human rights violations, including executions and sexual violence. Congolese forces have managed to repel some rebel offensives, while local youths respond to the call for military mobilization amid a humanitarian crisis affecting millions.

Rwanda-backed rebels are intensifying their advance into eastern Congo, having recently taken control of Goma, the region’s key city, as reported by the United Nations. The U.N. has raised concerns over multiple executions carried out by the rebels amid a significant increase in military conflict. In response, Congolese forces were able to fend off a rebel offensive towards Bakuvu, the provincial capital of South Kivu, according to local accounts.

The M23 rebel group, heavily supported by approximately 4,000 troops from Rwanda, has established itself as the most formidable among over 100 armed factions in eastern Congo, a region rich in vital minerals. The rebels claim their intent to reach Kinshasa, the national capital, which is located nearly 1,000 miles away from Goma. In the wake of their recent advances, humanitarian conditions have deteriorated significantly for around six million displaced individuals in the conflict.

The U.N. human rights office has documented severe human rights violations attributed to the M23 rebels, including the summary execution of at least 12 individuals and allegations of forced conscription and labor. Additionally, there have been reports of bomb strikes on internally displaced persons camps, with further concerns about military involvement in sexual violence claims, notably that 52 women were allegedly raped by Congolese troops in South Kivu.

Amidst these conflicts, security forces successfully repelled a rebel attack in the Kalehe territory. Local youths have begun volunteering for military training in response to President Félix Tshisekedi’s call for mass mobilization following a significant loss of personnel by the Congolese military after Goma’s fall. New governor Maj. Gen. Somo Kakule Evariste has pledged a prompt effort to re-establish government control.

As Goma remains without essential utilities such as water and electricity, residents face hardships in their daily lives. Efforts by the M23 to restore services have coincided with ongoing violence, highlighting the dual struggle for local governance and basic human needs. Corneille Nangaa from M23 has stated, “We are going to struggle until we restore democracy.”

The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo involves various armed groups, with the M23 rebel group backed by Rwandan military forces. The region has faced repeated cycles of violence, largely fueled by ethnic tensions and competition over mineral resources. Goma, a crucial humanitarian hub, has been a focal point of this violence, severely impacting millions of displaced individuals. Human rights organizations such as the U.N. continuously report violations by both rebels and government troops, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

The situation in eastern Congo continues to be dire as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels expand their control, significantly affecting the local population. Amid rising human rights abuses, including executions and sexual violence, both the rebels and Congolese military face scrutiny for their actions. As efforts to restore basic utilities in Goma falter, local aspirations for security and stability in the region remain unrealized. Without decisive action, the humanitarian situation is expected to worsen further.

Original Source: apnews.com