Fresh violence has erupted in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), forcing hundreds of civilians to flee to Rwanda just one day after a peace agreement was signed in Washington, D.C. The agreement aimed to stabilize the conflict-ridden region, but its immediate impact has been minimal as fighting continues to escalate.

Escalating Conflict in South Kivu
On Friday, clashes broke out in South Kivu province between the Congolese army and the M23, an anti-government armed group. The two sides are vying for control of Kamanyola, a strategic border town situated at the junction of DR Congo, Rwanda, and Burundi. Reports indicate that M23 has gained control of Kamanyola, intensifying the conflict further.

Witnesses reported that detonations were heard throughout the morning near Kamanyola, with explosions shaking buildings in the nearby Rwandan border town of Bugarama. Civilians described the chaos, with one resident, Immaculee Antoinette, stating, “The bombs were exploding above the houses.” Many were instructed to stay indoors, but the situation made that increasingly difficult.

Burundian Military Involvement
The Burundian army has also become involved in the conflict, reinforcing its positions in response to the M23's advances. A Burundian military source indicated that the situation is precarious, stating, “There is a real risk the situation escalates.” The source emphasized that Burundi cannot allow M23 and its Rwandan allies to advance toward Uvira, a city less than 30 kilometers from Burundi's capital, Bujumbura.

Civilians Flee to Safety
As fighting intensified, lines of civilians began crossing into Rwanda early Friday morning, monitored by Rwandan police. Local officials reported that schools, hospitals, and homes in Kamanyola have been shelled, prompting residents to seek refuge. Hassan Shabani, an administrative official in Kamanyola, confirmed the destruction and the fear gripping the local population.

In Rwanda, residents expressed concern, with one woman, Farizi Bizimana, noting that families were taking cover whenever gunfire erupted. “The children and women are very scared and take refuge in houses when the gunfire becomes intense,” she said.

Background of the Conflict
The M23 group has been a significant player in the region's turmoil, previously capturing major cities like Goma and Bukavu earlier this year. The peace agreement signed in Washington by DR Congo's President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwanda's President Paul Kagame was hailed by U.S. President Donald Trump as a “miracle,” but the ongoing violence raises questions about its effectiveness.

Wrap-up
The recent fighting in eastern DR Congo underscores the fragility of the peace agreement and the persistent instability in the region. As civilians continue to flee, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution to decades of conflict.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team