M23 Fighters Seize Control of Key Airport in Eastern DRC Ahead of…

M23 fighters have taken control of Bukavu’s Kavumu airport, marking a major advance in the DRC conflict. This capture constitutes the last military barrier before reaching Bukavu, which is located 30 kilometers away. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi attended a security conference in Germany while the summit in Ethiopia looms, highlighting ongoing international attention towards the DRC’s turmoil amid rising displacement and protests.

In a recent development, M23 fighters have reportedly seized control of Kavumu airport near Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This airport, which primarily facilitates NGO and military flights, was the last major military stronghold for the Congolese government forces before the city of over one million residents, located just 30 kilometers away. The rebels faced little resistance as Congolese troops evacuated the airport to retreat to Bukavu.

Alongside their capture of the airport, M23 fighters have also taken control of Katana, a town located approximately 11 kilometers from the airport. Their advancements come ahead of the African Union summit set to commence in Ethiopia, where the turmoil in DRC is expected to be a significant agenda topic. Although President Felix Tshisekedi was scheduled to attend, he has opted to send the Prime Minister in his place amid ongoing efforts to garner international support at the Munich Security Conference in Germany.

The M23 coalition had recently proclaimed a unilateral ceasefire but resumed hostilities shortly after. Moussa Faki Mahamat, the outgoing chair of the African Union, emphasized the importance of adhering to a ceasefire in eastern DRC, stating, “military campaigns are not going to solve these problems.” Since the swift capture of Goma, M23 rebels have been advancing southward toward Bukavu, regarded as a crucial strategic position.

The UN Refugee Agency has indicated that the humanitarian situation is deteriorating, with approximately 350,000 individuals displaced as a result of the escalating violence. Protests erupted in Kinshasa following the fall of Goma, where demonstrators targeted UN facilities and foreign embassies, highlighting frustrations with perceived foreign intervention in the conflict. This critical situation underscores the urgent need for dialogue and diplomatic resolutions to restore peace.

In conclusion, the recent seizure of Bukavu airport by M23 fighters marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict within the DRC. The advance towards Bukavu is especially concerning given the anticipated discussions surrounding the issue at the African Union summit. The situation continues to deteriorate, leading to mass displacement and civil unrest as calls for a ceasefire and diplomatic intervention become increasingly urgent.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com