Fighting intensified in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo on Tuesday after a brief two-day respite, as M23 fighters, allegedly supported by Rwanda, launched an assault on the positions of the Congolese armed forces in South Kivu province at dawn. Local and security sources reported that clashes were centered near Ihusi, a locality situated approximately 70 kilometers from Bukavu, the provincial capital, and 40 kilometers from the area’s airport. Eyewitness accounts indicated the sound of heavy weaponry echoing through the region.
The recent flare-up of violence follows a summit held over the weekend, in which leaders from East and Southern Africa called for an “immediate and unconditional” ceasefire within a five-day timeframe. The ongoing conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and displaced a significant portion of the population, raising concerns that the violence could potentially escalate and spill over into neighboring countries.
In response to the escalating tensions, the Congolese army has begun mobilizing reinforcements toward the town of Kavumu, which is key due to its proximity to the airport and its status as the main military base in the region. As the threat of an M23 offensive loomed, Bukavu residents took precautionary measures, with schools closing and businesses shutting down in preparation for a possible attack.
The M23 group, which claims to be defending the rights of ethnic Tutsis, has rapidly expanded its territorial control in eastern DRC in recent months, having resumed military operations in late 2021. Last month, the group successfully captured Goma, the capital city of North Kivu province, located on the border with Rwanda. Since then, the M23 has begun establishing its own governance structures in Goma, seen by many as a direct challenge to state authority, and has initiated recruitment efforts to form a local police force.
The situation remains fluid, with tension escalating as both military and civilian populations brace for what could become a significant confrontation in the region.
