Rwanda-backed rebels have ignored ceasefire calls, advancing into Walikale, a strategic town in eastern Congo rich in minerals. Amid escalating conflict and humanitarian crises, local resources are at stake and fears of civilian casualties rise as international diplomatic efforts struggle to contain the situation.
Rwanda-supported rebels have invaded Walikale, a crucial mineral-rich town in eastern Congo, disregarding recent ceasefire requests from the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. This escalation highlights the ongoing conflict, which regained momentum in January when the M23 rebel group captured Goma and subsequently Bukavu. The situation worsened despite diplomatic efforts in Qatar, where both presidents had called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.
Local reports confirm that M23 rebels entered Walikale late on Wednesday, gaining control of a strategic road connecting North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, and Maniema provinces. This takeover would significantly impair the Congolese army’s operational capabilities. Residents noted heavy artillery fire followed by sporadic gunfire, suggesting a shift in the conflict’s intensity. Prince Kihangi, a local political figure, remarked on the dire state of the Congolese army’s defense as he observed the rebels in key town locations.
Walikale’s mineral wealth, including the major Bisie tin mine, is of great significance. This mine, which provides the bulk of North Kivu’s tin exports, had already been forced to halt operations due to the advancing rebels. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi expressed the potential for collaboration with the United States regarding critical minerals, emphasizing that American pressure might help mitigate armed group influence in the region.
The M23 constitutes one of around a hundred armed factions vying for control in eastern Congo, a region historically plagued by violence and humanitarian crises, affecting over 7 million displaced individuals. The U.N. reports that M23 has been bolstered by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, with ambitions extending as far as the capital, Kinshasa.
Significant humanitarian concerns arise as Doctors Without Borders reported their facilities in Walikale were caught in the conflict, experienced direct assaults, and voiced concern over an impending influx of casualties. Acknowledging the exodus of civilians, MSF described a crippling climate of fear in Walikale and flagged the need for urgent support to protect and care for the affected populations in this turbulent region.
The continued advances of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in eastern Congo demonstrate a disregard for calls for a ceasefire, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. With the control over key mineral resources like those in Walikale, the conflict shows signs of intensifying, necessitating urgent attention and intervention to safeguard civilians. Diplomatic efforts are crucial in addressing this pressing crisis, as local populations face severe threats and displacement.
Original Source: www.wfmz.com
