Amid escalating violence from M23 rebels, many men in eastern DR Congo are risking their lives to flee conscription, with some attempting to cross the treacherous Rusizi River into Burundi. Over 70,000 individuals have sought refuge as the situation deteriorates, with reports of drownings and dire living conditions in refugee camps. Burundi’s military involvement heightens concerns of ongoing conflict in the region.
Jordan Bita, a 25-year-old man, elected to swim across the perilous Rusizi River to escape conscription by M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, fearing for his life if he remained. He described his journey as desperate, navigating the river’s strong currents while clinging to a bag of personal belongings. This flight comes amidst escalating conflict, notably as M23 has recently captured key cities such as Goma and Bukavu.
Burundian forces are actively monitoring the river’s edge in Cibitoke province, where around 70,000 Congolese refugees have sought safety in the past month amid the M23’s advances, reportedly supported by Rwanda. Upon reaching safety, Bita faced thorough checks for weapons imposed by Burundian troops before heading to a refugee camp, carrying food for his family.
Another refugee, Amani Sebakungu, shared the existential risk of crossing the treacherous river, indicating the desperate circumstances forcing them to take such risks. Dangerous currents have resulted in numerous drownings, with reports of at least 20 lives lost recently. Clarice Kacindi, who lost her child in a fatal raft incident, expressed her sorrow and frustration with the ongoing conflict caused by M23 rebels.
The refugee conditions are dire, with many crammed into tents and only rationed food provisions available. Burundian officials have reported a dramatic increase in one-way traffic at border posts due to men being instructed to stay in DR Congo and defend against invading rebels.
Burundi’s military has been deployed to assist DR Congo against the M23, creating a sense of alarm as the conflict escalates. Relations nearing the borders remain tense due to historical ethnic rivalries, particularly between Burundi and Rwanda. If M23 solidifies its position, there are fears of bolstered insurgent activity within Burundi.
UN officials highlighted this unprecedented refugee influx for Burundi, emphasizing the urgent need for international support to prevent potential conflicts between refugees and local communities. Elderly refugees, such as Magega Mwarui, reflect on the long history of conflict that plagues the region, while Charlotte Odile seeks safety for her children following a personal tragedy.
As the violence continues, the plight of these civilians becomes increasingly desperate, with many enduring trauma on their journeys to find safety, echoing a history of turmoil afflicting the region.
The humanitarian crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is intensifying due to the actions of M23 rebels, forcing thousands to flee across the Rusizi River into Burundi. Refugees face harrowing dangers, including drowning risks in their attempts to escape conscription and violence. Burundian authorities and international aid organizations are urged to provide assistance and improve the living conditions of those seeking refuge to prevent further disruptions within host communities.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
