BUKAVU, Congo (AP) — On Monday, February 17, 2025, Rwanda-backed M23 rebels intensified their control over Bukavu, a major city in eastern Congo, only a day after seizing it. This follows the abandonment of the city by Congolese forces during the ongoing conflict. Bukavu, home to 1.3 million residents, is strategically located 63 miles (101 kilometers) south of Goma, which had already fallen to the rebels in late January.
The M23 rebels stand as the most notable of over 100 armed groups vying for dominance over eastern Congo, a region rich in mineral wealth, vital for global technology. U.N. experts estimate that approximately 4,000 troops from neighboring Rwanda support the M23. The long-standing violence in the area has resulted in the displacement of over 6 million people, leading to one of the most severe humanitarian crises in the world.
As the rebels advanced, chaos enveloped Bukavu. Streets were crowded with residents trying to flee and looters hastily filling sacks with flour and other goods. Following the rebels' entrance, an eerie silence settled over the city as inhabitants braced for the new reality. On Monday morning, residents cautiously emerged from their homes, while the M23 troops conducted patrols at major intersections.
David Balezi, a local shopkeeper, recounted the apprehension felt by many. "People are still scared to go out because of the insecurity, so it’s not business as usual yet," he stated. Meanwhile, the border crossing to Rwanda was closed, and most businesses remained shut as traffic began to pick up gradually throughout the day.
Despite the uncertainty, some residents expressed a tentative optimism. "Now we thank God that the situation is OK, even if we don’t know what’s coming. Whatever happens, we will live with it," shared David Munyaga, a Bukavu resident. However, the atmosphere remained charged with fear and trepidation regarding the future.
In the rebel-held city of Goma, protests erupted as hundreds gathered to demand the withdrawal of the U.N. peacekeeping mission, known as MONUSCO, along with troops from the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Protesters organized a sit-in outside the MONUSCO headquarters, carrying signs and chanting slogans that called for the resignation of President Felix Tshisekedi. "The war does not end in Congo; why? They have nothing to do here; they should leave," protested Bauma Sukali. Another demonstrator, Fiston Nsabimana, stated, "Tshisekedi is not able to ensure peace; let him leave power."
The capture of Bukavu by the M23 has the potential to increase scrutiny from the international community, which has been preoccupied with various global conflicts. French President Emmanuel Macron recently called for an immediate ceasefire, an M23 withdrawal, and the restoration of Congolese authority in Bukavu, reflecting the growing concern of international leaders regarding the situation in eastern Congo.
