Rwanda-Backed Rebels Advance into Mineral-Rich Town of Walikale, Congo

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have violated ceasefire calls by advancing into Walikale, a strategic mineral-rich town in eastern Congo. This escalation follows earlier negotiations for peace and poses significant humanitarian risks as the conflict displaces millions and threatens local livelihoods.

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have ventured into the mineral-rich town of Walikale, located in eastern Congo, despite earlier calls for a ceasefire from both the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. This advancement marks a troubling escalation in ongoing hostilities, which intensified following the rebels’ capture of the strategic city of Goma in January and the town of Bukavu in February.

The recent escalation occurred after leaders from both nations convened in Qatar, aiming to establish an immediate ceasefire. These discussions followed unsuccessful ceasefire negotiations, which collapsed after the EU imposed sanctions on M23 leaders. Reports indicate that the rebels entered Walikale late Wednesday, jeopardizing a vital transportation route critical for four eastern provinces: North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, and Maniema.

Residents of Walikale, including civil society proponents like Prince Kihangi, have observed significant rebel presence in town. Fiston Misona, a local activist, noted the presence of heavy artillery and expressed concern over the Congolese army’s apparent inaction: “Our Congolese army is no longer fighting. It’s as if we were being sacrificed.”

Walikale is economically significant, housing the largest tin deposits in Congo and several notable gold mines. After the M23’s advance, the operator of the Bisie tin mine suspended operations due to security concerns. Furthermore, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi is exploring potential agreements regarding critical minerals with the U.S. to secure military assistance against armed groups like the M23.

With over 100 militarized factions vying for control in Congo, the conflict has led to the displacement of over 7 million individuals, generating a humanitarian crisis of extraordinary scale. The allies of the M23 include approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops. Additionally, the U.N. has initiated investigations into alleged atrocities committed by various factions involved.

Humanitarian groups such as Doctors Without Borders have reported their facilities being affected by the conflict. With recent explosions near their Walikale base, there are growing fears of increased casualties among civilians, prompting immediate concern for the safety and security of medical staff and patients receiving care in the region during this tumultuous period.

In summary, the incursion of Rwandan-backed M23 rebels into Walikale, Congo, underscores ongoing military escalation despite calls for ceasefire from regional authorities. The situation escalates further due to the strategic significance of the area, rich in minerals. There are severe humanitarian implications, with the potential for increased civilian casualties and continued unrest within the broader context of a long-standing conflict involving numerous armed factions.

Original Source: halifax.citynews.ca