In what has become one of the deadliest years in recent history for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), more than 7,000 people have been killed as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels make unprecedented territorial gains in the mineral-rich eastern region, according to Congolese Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka. Speaking at the U.N. Human Rights Council on Monday, Tuluka described the situation as “alarming,” with escalating violence and humanitarian suffering in the conflict zone.
The M23, the most powerful of over 100 armed groups vying for control in eastern Congo, has made significant strides since its resurgence in late 2021. In January, the rebels seized Goma, a key city in North Kivu province, followed by Bukavu, the provincial capital of South Kivu, in a lightning offensive that has displaced thousands and triggered widespread panic. The region, home to vast reserves of minerals like cobalt and coltan, is vital to global supply chains, particularly in the technology sector.
The M23 rebels, who claim to represent ethnic Tutsis and Congolese of Rwandan origin, argue they are fighting against discrimination and instability in the region. They have also expressed ambitions to unseat Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi’s government in Kinshasa, although analysts argue these motivations serve as justifications for Rwanda’s covert support. M23 forces, bolstered by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, are advancing despite international calls for a ceasefire.
The United Nations has warned of a broader regional threat, with fears that the ongoing violence could spill over into neighboring countries and destabilize the entire Central African region. Humanitarian organizations have expressed growing concern over the mounting displacement crisis, with millions of people fleeing their homes to escape the fighting.
M23’s recent gains include the strategic capture of the city of Uriva, where gunfire was reported over the weekend, signaling a potential further push by the rebels. In Goma, the rebels have been conducting intelligence operations to target former soldiers and criminals, but reports indicate that civilians have been caught in the crossfire. Witnesses in the city reported that 11 young people were killed on Sunday after being misidentified as criminals while waiting for a weightlifting class.
The escalating violence and humanitarian crisis underscore the failure of the DRC’s central government to maintain control over the east, a region historically plagued by insecurity and conflict. The international community, including the U.N., has called for urgent diplomatic intervention and a renewed push for a ceasefire, but there are few signs of a peaceful resolution as M23 continues its offensive.
As the violence persists, the question remains whether Congo can regain control over its eastern territories or if the M23 rebels, with backing from Rwanda, will succeed in their goal of reshaping the region.
