Desperate Measures: Refugees Risk Drowning to Escape Conflict in DR Congo
Amid the escalating conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, men are risking their lives to escape conscription by M23 rebels, with many swimming across the dangerous Rusizi River to seek refuge in Burundi. Over 70,000 refugees have crossed into Burundi amid significant violence, while reports indicate rising casualties due to drowning attempts. The ongoing situation exacerbates existing tensions in the region as humanitarian conditions grow increasingly dire.
In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, increasing conflict has compelled men like 25-year-old Jordan Bita to risk their lives by swimming across the treacherous Rusizi River to escape conscription by M23 rebel forces. With his possessions in a black bag, Bita navigated dangerous currents to reach Burundi, following a path through thick forest to evade detection by the rebels. The ongoing escalation of conflict has led to significant territorial losses, including the capture of Goma and Bukavu by the rebels in recent weeks.
Burundian soldiers monitor the borders closely as approximately 70,000 refugees, including families fleeing the violence, have sought safety in the region. Strict checks ensure no weapons are brought into Burundi, and many refugees arrive with limited resources. Bita journeyed to a refugee camp carrying essential food supplies for his family, who are already displaced.
Many individuals, like Amani Sebakungu, have faced dire risks while attempting to cross the river. Sebakungu remarked, “In the river you just have to take heart and say if I die or survive so be it. God willed I crossed safely.” The dangers of the crossing are substantial; at least 20 people have drowned in recent weeks, and many cases remain unreported, adding urgency to the situation.
Clarice Kacindi tragically shared her experience of losing her three-year-old child during the perilous crossing. “M23 are making our lives very difficult. They must stop this war. Even if I wanted to go back home, I’ll be forced to start from scratch. They’ve stolen everything we left behind,” she lamented.
In the town of Rugombo, makeshift refugee camps are overwhelmed with individuals often sharing tents with as many as 25 people and receiving minimal food rations. The same trend is seen at the Gatumba border, where the flow of refugees predominantly consists of women and children, with men instructed to remain behind to defend against the M23 insurgents.
Burundi’s government is on high alert, fearing the repercussions of a stronger M23 presence in South Kivu, possibly invigorating local rebel factions. Brigitte Mukanga-Eno of the UN refugee agency has indicated the exceptional strain this influx places on Burundi, calling for support to properly accommodate the arrivals and prevent potential conflict with host communities.
Elderly refugees such as Magega Mwarui provide personal accounts of the enduring instability in the region, illustrating the ongoing struggle for safety. Other refugees like Charlotte Odile seek a stable environment for their children following personal tragedies caused by the conflict. The narrative underscores a humanitarian crisis that continues to unfold as thousands flee violence in search of peace and safety.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has forced thousands to flee to Burundi, risking their lives in dangerously turbulent waters. The M23 rebels’ territorial gains escalate the crisis, and the plight of refugees illustrates the dire humanitarian consequences that arise from prolonged instability. Both the challenges faced by the refugees and the need for international support to manage their needs highlight the urgent realities on the ground.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
