Rwanda-Backed Rebels Claim Control of Second Airport in Congo, Advance Towards Bukavu
Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – February 14, 2025
Rwanda-backed rebels from the M23 movement have reportedly seized control of a second airport in eastern Congo, escalating their advance towards the key city of Bukavu. This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, raising regional security concerns and fears of a humanitarian crisis.
According to local sources, the rebel group captured the airport in the eastern part of the country as part of its strategic push towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. This follows their recent seizure of a strategic airport in North Kivu, demonstrating the group’s growing influence and operational capability in the region.
M23 Rebels: A Growing Threat
The March 23 Movement, commonly known as M23, is a Tutsi-led militia that has been involved in multiple conflicts in the eastern DRC. The group, initially formed in 2012, has long accused the Congolese government of failing to honor past peace agreements. Despite being defeated in 2013, M23 re-emerged in 2021 with renewed strength and support allegedly provided by Rwanda, a claim Kigali has consistently denied.
The current offensive by M23 has resulted in the displacement of thousands of civilians, with humanitarian organizations warning of an impending disaster. The United Nations and other international bodies have expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation, urging all parties to seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Strategic Importance of Bukavu
Bukavu, a major city bordering Rwanda, holds significant strategic and economic importance for both the DRC and the broader Great Lakes region. Its capture would mark a major victory for M23 and could further destabilize an already fragile region.
The city’s proximity to Rwanda has fueled long-standing suspicions about Kigali’s involvement in the conflict. While the Rwandan government has repeatedly denied any direct involvement, the Congolese authorities have accused their eastern neighbor of providing military and logistical support to the rebels.
International Response and Regional Implications
The growing instability in eastern Congo has drawn international attention, with neighboring countries and global powers calling for an immediate ceasefire. The African Union, United Nations, and European Union have all condemned the violence and urged both sides to return to the negotiating table.
Analysts warn that the continued advance of M23 could lead to a broader conflict involving multiple regional actors, further complicating efforts to achieve lasting peace in the Great Lakes region. The humanitarian toll of the conflict is already significant, with thousands of displaced families facing dire conditions in overcrowded camps.
Humanitarian Crisis Looms
The conflict has exacerbated an already fragile humanitarian situation in the region. Aid agencies report that thousands of families have been forced to flee their homes, seeking refuge in makeshift camps with limited access to food, clean water, and medical care. The influx of internally displaced people is stretching the capacity of humanitarian organizations operating in the region, raising fears of a public health crisis.
The ongoing conflict threatens to derail efforts to stabilize the region and underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive peace process. Observers are closely monitoring the situation, as the fall of Bukavu could mark a turning point in the conflict.
Source : Swifteradio.com
