M23 chaos continues in DRC

Introduction

The situation involving the M23 rebel group in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has reached a critical point, marked by territorial gains, humanitarian crisis, and escalating regional tensions. Below are the key developments as of February 6, 2025:

Recent Military Developments

Capture of Goma

On January 28, M23 rebels—backed by Rwandan forces—seized control of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. This marked a major escalation in the conflict, which has displaced hundreds of thousands and left over 2,800 dead in the city alone.

Expansion into South Kivu

Despite declaring a unilateral ceasefire on February 4, M23 violated the truce days later by capturing Nyabibwe, a strategic mining town in South Kivu.

Clashes continue near Bukavu, the provincial capital, with reports of M23 troop reinforcements and Rwandan military movements.

Humanitarian Crisis

Casualties and Displacement

At least 2,800 people have been killed in Goma, with morgues overwhelmed and shortages of body bags.

Over 400,000 civilians have fled the fighting, many to Rwanda.

Resource Collapse

Food prices have doubled in affected areas, and camps for displaced people have been destroyed.

The UN warns of disease outbreaks due to lack of clean water and shelter.

Political and Regional Dynamics

DRC’s Stance

The Congolese government has dismissed M23’s ceasefire as a “ploy” and issued an arrest warrant for Corneille Nangaa, leader of M23’s political wing, on charges of war crimes and treason.

Kinshasa refuses direct negotiations with the group.

Rwanda’s Role

UN reports confirm Rwandan troops are fighting alongside M23, with Rwanda seeking to establish a buffer zone in eastern DRC to secure mineral interests.

Rwanda denies involvement but acknowledges troop deployments near the border.

Regional Summit

A joint SADC-EAC summit on February 7–8 aims to address the crisis, but prospects for peace are dim due to M23’s territorial control and Kinshasa’s refusal to engage directly.

M23’s Long-Term Goals

M23 has established parallel governance structures in areas it controls and demands implementation of a 2013 peace deal that would legitimize its political role.

The group’s leadership claims its goal is to “march to Kinshasa,” the DRC’s capital.

International Response

UN Concerns: Secretary-General António Guterres called the situation “deeply concerning,” urging regional unity to prevent a wider war. The ICC is monitoring alleged war crimes.

Humanitarian Appeals

Aid groups are struggling to access conflict zones, with the Red Cross prioritizing body recovery in Goma.

Conclusion

The conflict risks spiraling into a regional war, reminiscent of the 1990s Congo Wars, with Burundi, Uganda, and SADC forces already involved. While M23’s ceasefire has temporarily slowed fighting, its territorial ambitions and Rwanda’s backing suggest further instability. Diplomatic efforts face steep hurdles, leaving millions of civilians in imminent danger.