The African Union (AU) has expressed concern about the potential territorial fragmentation of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as fighting intensifies in the country’s east. The warning comes after the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group seized another major city, further escalating tensions.
AU Peace and Security Commissioner Bankole Adeoye emphesized the need to prevent the fragmentation of eastern DRC, calling for the immediate withdrawal of M23 militants and supporters from all occupied territories, including Goma airport.
On Sunday, M23 forces, reportedly backed by Rwandan troops, advanced towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. The capture of Bukavu, a city of one million, follows the group’s capture of Goma in neighbouring North Kivu province in late January, giving them effective control over the vital Lake Kivu region.
Mixed Reactions as M23 Enters Bukavu
As M23 militants entered Bukavu, some residents cheered them from their balconies and chanted slogans in support of change. But others feared instability, especially after looting broke out following the withdrawal of the Congolese armed forces (FARDC). Civilians and bandits reportedly seized abandoned weapons, leading to further unrest over the weekend.
In response, the M23 ordered the establishment of vigilance committees to restore order and demanded the withdrawal of Burundian troops supporting the DRC army. Sporadic gunfire was reported near the city’s military base as M23 fighters pursued the remaining soldiers and looters.
International Concerns Over Territorial Escalation
The Congolese government has accused Rwanda of trying to occupy and exploit the mineral-rich region, a claim Kigali denies. Kinshasa estimates that there are around 4,000 Rwandan troops in eastern DRC.
The international community has called for a de-escalation, fearing a wider regional conflict. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for the DRC’s territorial integrity to be preserved, while France and the UK have demanded the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan troops.
Despite increasing diplomatic pressure, efforts to broker a ceasefire have so far failed, leaving the region on the brink of further instability.