Rwanda-backed rebels have strengthened their control over Bukavu, the second major city in eastern Congo, following their capture of the city on Sunday. The M23 rebels took over Bukavu after Congolese forces abandoned the city, which is located 63 miles south of Goma, another city captured by the rebels in late January.
The M23 rebels, supported by approximately 4,000 troops from neighboring Rwanda, are among more than 100 armed groups competing for control of eastern Congo's valuable mineral resources. The ongoing conflict in the region has led to the displacement of over 6 million people, creating a severe humanitarian crisis.
As the rebels entered Bukavu, residents flooded the streets in an attempt to leave, while looters took advantage of the situation. Despite initial chaos, a sense of apprehensive calm settled over the city as residents prepared for the rebels' presence.
On Monday, residents cautiously ventured out onto the streets as rebel patrols monitored major intersections. Many shops remained closed, and traffic slowly resumed as people adjusted to the new reality.
The rebel-appointed governor of North-Kivu province announced plans to reopen the ports of Goma and Bukavu on Tuesday, signaling a potential return to normalcy. In Goma, protesters gathered to demand the departure of the U.N. peacekeeping force and troops from the Southern African Development Community, expressing frustration with the ongoing conflict and calling for political change.
Despite the uncertainty facing Bukavu and the wider region, residents expressed a mix of resignation and hope for stability. The situation remains fluid as the rebels consolidate their control over key areas in eastern Congo.
