The African Union (AU) has raised alarms over the escalating conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), warning that the situation could spiral into a regional war.
This warning comes as Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have captured significant territories, including the city of Bukavu, raising concerns among regional leaders and international observers.
Key Takeaways
- The M23 rebels have advanced into Bukavu, South Kivu, following their capture of Goma in North Kivu.
- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the need for dialogue and respect for DRC’s territorial integrity.
- The AU summit in Addis Ababa is focused on preventing a broader conflict in the region.
- International pressure is mounting on Rwanda to halt its support for the M23 rebels.
Background of the Conflict
The conflict in eastern DRC has deep historical roots, exacerbated by ethnic tensions and competition for the region’s rich mineral resources.
The M23, a rebel group formed in 2012, has been accused of receiving support from Rwanda, a claim that Kigali denies.
The ongoing violence has led to significant humanitarian crises, with millions displaced and thousands killed.
Recent Developments
In recent weeks, the M23 has made substantial gains, capturing key locations and pushing Congolese forces into retreat.
The situation escalated dramatically when the rebels seized Bukavu, a vital city in South Kivu, following their earlier capture of Goma. This advancement has raised fears of a wider conflict involving neighboring countries.
M23’s Recent Actions:
- Captured Goma on January 26, 2025.
- Entered Bukavu on February 15, 2025.
- Seized Kavumu Airport, a critical supply hub.
International Response
At the AU summit, Guterres called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urged all parties to engage in dialogue.
He warned that the ongoing conflict threatens to destabilize the entire region, stating, “There is no military solution. The deadlock must end, and dialogue must begin.”
The AU’s Peace and Security Commissioner, Bankole Adeoye, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for caution to prevent an open regional war.
The summit has seen leaders from various African nations convene to discuss potential solutions and the urgent need for a ceasefire.
The Role of Regional Powers
The involvement of regional powers complicates the situation further. Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame attended the AU summit, while DRC’s President Félix Tshisekedi was notably absent, opting to focus on the crisis at home.
Observers have criticized Tshisekedi’s lack of engagement in regional discussions, which could be pivotal in resolving the conflict.
Regional Dynamics:
Rwanda is accused of backing the M23 rebels, while Burundi has sent troops to support the DRC’s military.
Uganda’s military chief has threatened to intervene, raising concerns about further escalation.
Humanitarian Impact
The humanitarian situation in eastern DRC is dire, with over 6.4 million people already displaced due to ongoing violence. The recent clashes have exacerbated this crisis, leading to increased calls for international intervention and support for affected populations.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to a conflict that has already claimed countless lives and threatens to destabilize an entire region.