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

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have advanced into the town of Walikale in eastern Congo, disregarding ceasefire calls from the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. The conflict escalated after significant territorial gains by the M23 earlier this year. As combat intensifies, humanitarian concerns arise, with over 7 million people displaced, while critical mining operations face disruptions due to ongoing hostilities.

Rebels backed by Rwanda have advanced into a strategically significant and mineral-rich town in eastern Congo, defying recent pleas for a ceasefire made by the presidents of Congo and Rwanda. This escalation occurs amidst a longstanding conflict that intensified earlier this year, particularly after the M23 rebel group captured the city of Goma and subsequently Bukavu.

The current situation follows talks held in Qatar, where the Congolese and Rwandan leadership called for an immediate ceasefire after a failed negotiation attempt between the Congolese government and M23 leaders. The latter withdrew from the dialogue after European Union sanctions were announced against rebel leaders.

Residents and civil society leaders reported that rebels entered Walikale late Wednesday. Capturing Walikale would enable M23 to control a crucial roadway connecting the provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, and Maniema, thereby jeopardizing Congolese army positions in the region.

Prince Kihangi, a former provincial deputy, noted that rebels were observed near distinct locations in the town, while local activist Fiston Misona highlighted the lack of resistance from the Congolese army, expressing deep concern for the civilian population. The army’s diminished efforts were described as an act of sacrificial abandonment.

Walikale is critically important economically as it contains substantial tin deposits and multiple significant gold mines. Following the venture of armed rebels, Alphamin Resources announced a temporary halt to mining operations at the Bisie tin mine, central to tin exports in North Kivu province.

In a related context, President Felix Tshisekedi expressed a willingness to negotiate mineral deals with the United States in exchange for enhanced security measures. He indicated that the U.S. could apply pressure or sanctions to control rebel activity in the region.

M23 is among approximately 100 armed factions engaged in struggles for territory in resource-laden eastern Congo, contributing to one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, with over seven million individuals displaced. The U.N. has identified around 4,000 supporting troops from Rwanda assisting the rebels, who have threatened to advance towards Congo’s capital, Kinshasa.

Furthermore, the U.N. Human Rights Council has initiated a commission to investigate human rights violations attributed to both military factions. Concurrently, Doctors Without Borders has reported violent confrontations near its Walikale base, which sustained damage from gunfire, posing risks to medical personnel and patients. The organization has expressed grave concerns over the growing insecurity and a potential surge in casualties amongst the local populace.

The persistent advance of Rwanda-backed rebels into strategic locations within eastern Congo underscores the urgent need for international attention and intervention. The regional balance remains precarious as the humanitarian crisis deepens with widespread displacements and rising fears among civilians. Ceasefire negotiations have faltered, highlighting the challenges in resolving this prolonged conflict. The economic implications, particularly concerning critical mineral resources, further complicate the situation, necessitating a multifaceted approach for resolution.

Original Source: www.seattletimes.com