Burundi Troops Deploy in Eastern DRC Amid UK Aid Suspension to Rwanda

Burundi troops allied with Kinshasa are deploying in eastern DRC as the UK halts bilateral aid to Rwanda amidst ongoing M23 offensives. The situation has led to increased violence, with thousands reported dead. Efforts for peace negotiations have been initiated by former African leaders, while humanitarian crises worsen in the region.

Burundi troops allied with Kinshasa have commenced deployments in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as the United Kingdom suspended most direct bilateral aid to Rwanda due to the offensive actions of the M23 fighters, which are allegedly supported by Rwandan soldiers. The M23 rebel group has captured significant cities in the region, escalating violence in a context of longstanding instability, which has persisted for nearly three decades and resulted in millions of fatalities.

The UK government expressed that while Rwanda has security concerns, military solutions are unacceptable, insisting on a political resolution. Consequently, the UK will halt aid until notable progress is achieved in abating the violence. Recently, M23 has taken control of key locations, enhancing their presence in this mineral-rich area with minimal resistance from the DRC army, which has faced allegations of misconduct in its retreat.

Reports indicate that M23 fighters are advancing towards Uvira, situated at the Lake Tanganyika’s northwestern coast. The situation has prompted movements of heavily armed Burundian soldiers towards the vicinity of Uvira to counter the M23 rebels, with local militia also joining them. Meanwhile, the town of Kamanyola remains calm yet is experiencing an exodus of residents fearing further clashes.

The conflict has seen injuries among South African troops who were previously deployed to assist DRC efforts and are now returning home for medical care. In response to the recent violence, a group of former African leaders has been appointed to facilitate peace negotiations in the region. This move coincides with the arrival of an International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor to investigate the heightened conflicts.

Bipartisan efforts among regional blocs such as the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) are underway to broker a ceasefire. Both entities have combined their peace initiatives as tensions escalate. Statements issued by the EAC and SADC outline a plan focusing on establishing an unconditional ceasefire, delivering humanitarian aid, and securing Goma International Airport.

The Prime Minister of DRC reported alarming statistics, indicating over 7,000 deaths since January, underscoring the critical condition in eastern DRC. The United Nations humanitarian agency corroborated these claims, highlighting that more than 3,000 deaths were recorded shortly before the M23 took over Goma. These figures emphasize the urgency and severity of the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

The deployment of Burundi troops and the pause of UK aid to Rwanda emphasize the escalating military and political tensions in eastern DRC. Amidst the turmoil, efforts towards peace negotiations have been initiated by African leaders, aiming for a ceasefire and improved humanitarian conditions. The situation continues to deteriorate, with tragic repercussions for the local population. Immediate attention and significant actions are required to mitigate the violence and humanitarian crisis.

Original Source: www.kulr8.com