Challenges Facing the DRC Army Against M23 Rebel Group

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s army struggles against the smaller M23 rebel group, having lost control of key cities. Despite increased military spending, systemic corruption and lack of resources plague the FARDC, undermining effectiveness. Historical factors and military support from Rwanda complicate reform efforts.

Since January, the M23 rebel militia has captured the vital cities of Goma and Bukavu in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), establishing governance in the regions under their control. The Congolese armed forces (FARDC), estimated to number around 135,000 soldiers in 2022, face significant challenges against the much smaller M23, which is believed to consist of only a few thousand fighters, bolstered by approximately 4,000 soldiers from Rwanda.

The increase in military spending—more than doubled to $794 million—by Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi raises questions regarding the FARDC’s inability to defend against the M23’s advances. Experts attribute the FARDC’s struggles to systemic corruption, which has resulted in the misallocation of funds intended for salaries and logistics. Consequently, morale is low among troops, leading to desertions and, at times, soldiers resorting to looting local populations for survival.

The FARDC faces ingrained issues that include poor pay and a lack of resources, despite Tshisekedi’s reforms aimed at improving soldier compensation. Reports indicate that mercenaries from Eastern Europe receive significantly higher wages, which further diminishes troop spirit and cohesion. Furthermore, the FARDC suffers from inadequacies in training and equipment when compared to the M23, which employs better-structured training and strategies suited for the rugged terrain of North Kivu.

The Congolese military is hampered by an ineffective command structure and issues of cronyism, often prioritizing loyalty over competence when appointing military officers. This has resulted in poor decision-making and difficulty in maintaining a reliable military force. The persistent rotation of military leadership indicates a failure to establish a stable command hierarchy, which is crucial for effective military operations.

Historically, the army in the DRC has been riddled with division and control tactics, originating from the regime of former President Mobutu Sese Seko, who feared a strong military could lead to a coup. Under the regimes of Laurent and Joseph Kabila, the army was further compromised, particularly by Rwandan influences. This legacy fosters governmental reluctance to negotiate with M23 insurgents due to potential infiltration fears.

Rwanda’s military support has played a crucial role in enhancing the capabilities of the M23, presenting a formidable challenge to the FARDC. In response to the situation, the DRC is undergoing a slow process of reforming its military. Reform advocates suggest that sustainable changes will require more time than currently anticipated.

The ongoing struggle of the DRC’s army against the M23 insurgents is largely a reflection of historical mismanagement, systemic corruption, and a lack of training and resources. With an enhanced military budget, the FARDC’s ineffectiveness raises serious questions about military leadership and operational integrity. Additionally, the influence of Rwanda’s military poses a significant obstacle to the DRC’s efforts to stabilize its armed forces, necessitating a concerted and sustained reform approach.

Original Source: www.dw.com