Geopolitical tensions in the DRC exacerbated by US support for Rwanda and regional peace challenges. The Wazalendo and the Burundian army, allies of the FARDC, resist M23 attacks and restore order in Kivu.
Luanda (Angola), 11/24/2024 – During the 18th ordinary session of the Regional Interministerial Committee, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) tried, through negotiations led by Angola pushed by the United States, to put pressure on to expel Rwanda, via the M23 group, of Congolese territory. This geopolitical conflict is based on Congolese diplomacy aimed at convincing the United States to no longer support Rwandan President Kagame, their main ally in the region since the 1980s and 1990s. However, this attempt seems difficult to achieve.
The security situation in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri, under a state of siege for three years, is worrying. In the east of the DRC, many Congolese live in displacement camps, such as in Mugunga, Bushagara and Kanyarushinga, due to the war exacerbated by the geopolitical interests of the United States, which uses Rwanda (through M23/RDF). This conflict is part of a broader dynamic, marked by the rise of China and the BRICS+ in the context of the new multipolar world underway.
In this context, the United States facilitated a ceasefire between the DRC and Rwanda through talks in Luanda (Angola), which allowed Rwanda and its allies to regain strength and adopt new strategies. Thus, the M23/RDF continues to violate the ceasefire, reorganizing in Rutshuru, Kalembe, etc.
Rwanda, through the M23/RDF, exploits mineral-rich regions such as Rubaya, Bunagana and Walikale, as well as agricultural lands. Although the M23/RDF is no longer heading towards Goma, the territories it controls allow it to exploit local resources in peace, with money from minerals used to finance the purchase of weapons.
The honorable Shabani Lukoo, senator from North Kivu and responsible for territorial security in Lumumbashi, denounces acts of ethnic cleansing and the forced transplantation of foreign populations (cf. immigrants expelled from Libya, England, etc.) in Rutshuru and Masisi. He estimates the number of internally displaced people as a result of Rwandan military actions at seven million.
In Kalembe, the impact of this situation is particularly severe, as residents live in constant fear, with some forced to flee. However, the FARDC, supported by the Wazalendo (local patriotic forces) and Burundi’s allies, are fighting against this Rwandan aggression and offering increased protection to the displaced populations. Thanks to their knowledge of the terrain, the Wazalendo were able to push back the M23/RDF from certain areas, notably in Walikale, allowing residents to return to their homes.
In South Kivu, in Minembwe, on November 23, 2024, the Burundian army (FDNB), present in the DRC as a loyalist force, firmly rejected the false accusations of Twirwaneho, a Banyamulenge self-defense group supported by Rwanda, which accuses the Burundian military of interference in local inter-ethnic conflicts. Although Rwanda is trying to open a new front in this region, it seems difficult to break through the defense lines established by Congolese forces and their allies.
Sources: Nahimana P., Sunday November 24, 2024 | Photo: PHIL KAYINGA
How does the U.S.’s support for Rwanda impact the ongoing tensions and humanitarian crisis in the DRC?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Marie Mbili, Geopolitical Analyst Specialized in African Conflicts
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Mbili! Thank you for joining us today. The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has reached a critical point, particularly with the ongoing tensions involving Rwanda and the M23 group. Can you help us understand the roots of these geopolitical tensions?
Dr. Mbili: Thank you for having me. The tensions in the DRC are deeply rooted in a complex history of colonialism, ethnic conflict, and international interests. Since the 1980s, Rwanda, under President Kagame, has positioned itself as a key ally of the United States, which complicates the DRC’s diplomatic efforts. Currently, the DRC is trying to convince the U.S. to reassess its support for Rwanda, particularly in light of M23’s incursions into Congolese territory.
Editor: That leads us to the U.S.’s role in this conflict. What do you think about their position regarding Rwanda and how it affects the DRC?
Dr. Mbili: The U.S. has historically supported Rwanda for its strategic value in the Great Lakes region, especially against the backdrop of countering Chinese influence. However, this support indirectly fuels the conflict, as Rwanda exploits mineral-rich areas within the DRC. The U.S.’s attempts to broker peace, like the recent ceasefire facilitated in Luanda, were inconclusive. Rwanda continues to regroup and fortify its position, which makes a sustainable peace settlement challenging.
Editor: Regarding the conflict’s impact on civilians, how severe is the situation for those living in affected areas like North Kivu and Ituri?
Dr. Mbili: It’s heartbreaking. The internal displacement is staggering, with estimates of seven million people affected—especially in areas like Rutshuru and Masisi. Many live in dire conditions in displacement camps. Resources are scarce, and fear permeates their daily lives. The work of local forces, like the Wazalendo and the Burundian army, has been crucial in trying to provide some measure of protection and stability. Yet, the underlying issues remain unresolved.
Editor: The response of local forces to M23 attacks has been significant. Can you elaborate on how these groups are engaging and what strategies they are employing?
Dr. Mbili: Absolutely! The FARDC, alongside the Wazalendo and Burundi’s allies, has been actively fighting back against M23. They have utilized their knowledge of the local terrain to regain control over key areas. For example, efforts in Walikale have allowed some displaced residents to return to their homes. Nonetheless, Rwanda’s tactical advantages, including access to resources and reinforcements, mean that the situation remains precarious and fluid.
Editor: You mentioned the influence of regional dynamics, such as the rise of China and the BRICS+. How do these global shifts play into the local conflicts in the DRC?
Dr. Mbili: The emergence of a multipolar world is reshaping alliances and conflicts. As China and BRICS nations expand their influence, they challenge Western dominance. This may be causing the U.S. to double down on supporting partners like Rwanda, which complicates peace efforts in the DRC. The DRC, with its vast mineral wealth, is a focal point in this geopolitical maneuvering, and various powers are vying for influence, often at the expense of local communities.
Editor: In light of these challenges, what do you think the path forward looks like for the DRC? Is there hope for peace?
Dr. Mbili: Hope exists, but it is contingent on genuine international commitment to lasting peace. This means addressing the root causes of conflict, such as ethnic tensions and resource exploitation. The DRC’s leaders must unite to advocate for their sovereignty and security. Meanwhile, the international community must hold Rwanda accountable for its actions and support more comprehensive diplomatic solutions rather than short-term ceasefires.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mbili. Your insights provide a clearer understanding of this complex crisis and the interconnectedness of global politics with local realities. We appreciate your time and expertise!
Dr. Mbili: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we continue to shed light on these issues for the sake of those affected.