M23 Rebels Escalate Conflict in Mineral-Rich Walikale, Congo

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have advanced into Walikale, Congo, despite ceasefire calls from both Congolese and Rwandan presidents. The rebels’ expansion follows their occupation of key cities and has significant implications due to the area’s mineral wealth. Humanitarian concerns mount amid escalating violence, with over 7 million people displaced in the ongoing conflict.

In the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have recently advances into the mineral-rich town of Walikale, despite appeals for an immediate ceasefire from the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. This escalation follows the rebels’ capture of Goma in January and Bukavu in February, significantly increasing their territorial control in the region.

Last Wednesday, an unexpected meeting took place between the leaders of Congo and Rwanda in Qatar, aimed at negotiating a ceasefire. Unfortunately, prior negotiations between the Congolese government and M23 leaders collapsed, following the announcement of sanctions from the European Union against rebel leaders. Reports from residents indicate that the rebels made their entrance into Walikale late Wednesday, potentially gaining a critical road link across several provinces in eastern Congo.

Prince Kihangi, a former provincial deputy, confirmed sightings of rebels in key areas of Walikale, while residents reported heavy artillery fire throughout the day, which subsided in the evening. Civil society activist Fiston Misona expressed concerns over the Congolese army’s inability to engage in the fighting, stating, “It’s as if we were being sacrificed.”

Walikale is significant due to its vast tin reserves and gold mines, including the Bisie mine, which largely contributes to North Kivu’s tin exports. In light of the escalating violence, Alphamin Resources, the mine’s operator, has temporarily ceased its operations. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi expressed willingness to negotiate a deal concerning critical minerals with the United States, suggesting that American involvement could aid in stabilizing the situation.

M23 is among approximately 100 armed groups in eastern Congo competing for influence in the region, which has resulted in one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, displacing over 7 million individuals. U.N. experts have reported that M23 receives support from around 4,000 Rwandan troops and has indicated intentions to advance towards Kinshasa, the capital.

The U.N. Human Rights Council has initiated an investigation into reported atrocities conducted by both sides in this conflict. Doctors Without Borders has highlighted the dire situation in Walikale, where their facilities have come under fire, and conditions have reached alarming levels with local health services overwhelmed by the rising number of casualties. They note that, “in recent days, the town of Walikale had already practically emptied of its population in panic,” indicating a severe human toll from the ongoing violence.

The situation in eastern Congo remains precarious as the M23 rebels advance, disregarding ceasefire calls and heightening humanitarian concerns. With strategic towns like Walikale at risk and valuable mineral resources in jeopardy, the conflict continues to displace millions while international discussions for resolution are hindered. The continued support from Rwandan troops for the rebels further complicates the stability in the region, underlining the urgent need for effective diplomatic interventions.

Original Source: www.2news.com