Burundi Forces Withdraw from DR Congo as Refugee Crisis Escalates

Burundi is rapidly withdrawing troops from the DRC amidst a significant influx of refugees due to escalating conflict involving M23 fighters. This situation has been described as the largest refugee wave into Burundi in 25 years, with the UN expressing deep concerns about potential regional conflict. The conditions for both the displaced and the remaining troops are dire, necessitating urgent humanitarian response.

Burundi has expedited the withdrawal of some troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as the conflict, notably involving Rwandan-backed M23 fighters, intensifies. This situation has led to UN warnings about a significant surge in refugees from the DRC, marking the largest influx in 25 years for Burundi. The UN reported that M23 has made substantial gains, capturing cities such as Goma and Bukavu and advancing on other strategic areas in the eastern provinces of North and South Kivu.

According to a senior military officer, the Burundian army has begun extracting soldiers from South Kivu due to serious logistical issues, including lack of supplies. Despite having deployed over 10,000 troops to assist the Congolese army, the Burundian forces are facing challenges attributed to disorganized Congolese military units. As a result, morale and resources among the troops have deteriorated severely.

The influx of refugees in Burundi has been overwhelming, with approximately 30,000 individuals crossing the border from the DRC in recent weeks. The UNHCR representative in Burundi noted that this is the largest number of refugees in two decades. The Burundian government confirmed that around 10,000 people have fled fearing violence, particularly following recent M23 movements.

Many refugees have expressed desperation, seeking assistance and basic necessities. Some, like Kitenge, fled armed conflicts that erupted around them. A woman in her sixties reiterated the dire conditions, stating that they lacked food and shelter and were vulnerable to illness without immediate aid.

Burundi’s Interior Minister stated that the government plans to relocate these refugees for their protection and grant them proper refugee status. This comes at a time when Burundi was already housing around 90,000 individuals from previous conflicts in the eastern DRC. Additionally, 500 Congolese military personnel were reported to have arrived at the border, disarmed and searched.

Concerns about regional warfare have arisen, with the UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC highlighting M23’s advancing positions near the borders with Rwanda and Burundi. The UN and international observers are alarmed at the potential for escalation reminiscent of the tragic Second Congo War from 1998 to 2003, which claimed millions of lives. The United States has begun imposing sanctions on a Rwandan minister connected to the M23, amid Rwanda’s denials of involvement.

The situation in Burundi and the DRC is deteriorating, with significant military withdrawals and a rising refugee crisis driven by conflict. The international community is watching closely, as fears of a broader regional war heighten. Urgent humanitarian assistance is needed to support the thousands displaced and affected by the violence, while diplomatic efforts must address the underlying issues fueling this conflict.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr