On Sunday, M23 fighters, backed by Rwandan troops, seized control of Bukavu, a major city in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The city’s fall, after a swift advance by M23 fighters, has deepened fears that the strife-torn country is on the brink of fragmentation. Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, was poorly defended by Congolese forces, leading to the rapid occupation.
[ AU Calls For End To Escalating Violence In Eastern DRC ]
Thousands of residents have fled as the conflict intensifies, and international alarms are being raised about the country’s territorial integrity.
M23 Fighters’s Control Expands, Solidifying Grip on Lake Kivu
With the capture of Bukavu, M23 now controls the entire Lake Kivu region. This move follows their capture of Goma, the capital of North Kivu, in late January.
The group’s growing influence has sparked calls for Rwanda to cease its military support for M23, though Rwanda continues to deny involvement.
The international community has expressed mounting concern over the potential for the conflict to spiral into a regional war, as the situation grows increasingly volatile.
Looting, Refugee Crisis, and the Calls for De-escalation
As M23 fighters marched into Bukavu, they were met with a mixed reception. While some residents cheered and called for change, others sought safety as looting spread throughout the city.
Weapons left behind by retreating Congolese soldiers were seized by civilians, further escalating the chaos. Meanwhile, thousands of refugees have fled to neighbouring Burundi, with reports indicating over 10,000 individuals have crossed the border.
The African Union and United Nations have urged a ceasefire, warning of the potential for regional escalation. The DRC government continues to accuse Rwanda of exacerbating the crisis, with accusations of occupation and pillaging in the eastern provinces.
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