Crisis in Eastern Congo: Refugees Fleeing to Burundi Amid M23 Conflict

The article discusses the ongoing refugee crisis caused by the M23 rebel group’s activities in eastern Congo, specifically focusing on the perilous journey many individuals undertake to escape into Burundi. With approximately 70,000 fleeing within a month and devastating personal stories emerging, the situation highlights the urgent need for international assistance to address the humanitarian impact of the conflict.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, many individuals are fleeing to Burundi to escape forced enlistment into armed groups like M23. One 25-year-old, Jordan Bita, swam across the Rusizi River with personal belongings hidden in a black raft, a last resort to safeguard his life amidst escalating tensions in eastern Congo. The M23 rebels recently seized the cities of Goma and Bukavu, leading to a surge in refugees. In the past month alone, approximately 70,000 people have crossed into Burundi to escape the violence supported by Rwanda, which shares a border with Burundi.

The refugee crisis in this region has reached alarming proportions, with many fleeing across the Rusizi River, despite reports of drownings as they undertake this perilous journey. For instance, Clarice Kacindi lost her three-year-old child while attempting to escape. Refugees face harsh conditions in makeshift camps, where many share tents and receive minimal food. In Northern Burundi, security forces enforce strict regulations, disallowing men from crossing into Burundi to prevent potential conflicts.

Burundi has deployed more than 10,000 troops in Congo to assist in the ongoing conflict against the M23 rebels, yet the situation remains precarious as rebel forces continue their advance south from Bukavu, now nearing Uvira. The deteriorating relationship between Burundi and Rwanda adds to tensions, as both nations have histories of ethnic conflict and political strife. Since the M23 has established a foothold in South Kivu, the Burundian government fears implications for their own national security, particularly regarding potential attacks from the rebel group Red Tabara, known for its affiliation with the Tutsi faction in Burundi.

Brigitte Mukanga-Eno from the UN Refugee Agency warns of the dire consequences if Burundi receives an influx of refugees, emphasizing the need for international support. The escalating violence has led to a large number of refugees seeking safety in Burundi, a nation that has not faced such a high refugee intake in over 20 years. Survivors, like 87-year-old Magega Mwarui, reflect on the community’s historical conflicts due to ethnic tensions, underscoring the longstanding turmoil in the region.

The situation in eastern Congo is dire, as the increasing presence of M23 rebels forces thousands to seek refuge in Burundi. The hardships faced by these refugees are significant, with many risking their lives to escape violence. The international community must pay attention to the growing crisis and assist Burundi in its efforts to support these displaced individuals.

Original Source: www.bbc.com