By Twink Jones Gadama
Violent clashes between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the M23 rebel group have intensified in the South Kivu Province, forcing schools and local government operations to shut down in Bukavu.
According to local sources, the fighting escalated on Thursday and continued into the early hours of Friday, with new clashes reported in Bushushu, Kalehe territory, South Kivu Province. The violence broke out after rebels were ambushed by the FARDC in Bushushu, as they attempted to proceed towards the provincial capital, Bukavu.
The M23 rebels had already taken control of the getaway towns of Nyamukubi and Lushebere, and their advances have raised concerns about the security situation in the region. Local sources indicate that Bushushu has been severely affected by the intense violence, with reports of widespread destruction and displacement.
As a result of the escalating violence, schools and local government operations in Bukavu have been forced to close, leaving residents in a state of uncertainty. The city is on high alert, with many fearing that the fighting could spread to other areas.
The conflict between the FARDC and the M23 has been ongoing for years, with periodic outbreaks of violence. The M23 rebels have been accused of committing human rights abuses, including killings, rapes, and forced recruitment of child soldiers.
The international community has called for calm and restraint, urging both sides to engage in dialogue to resolve their differences peacefully. However, with the situation on the ground continuing to deteriorate, it remains to be seen whether a peaceful resolution can be achieved.
As the conflict rages on, the people of Bukavu and surrounding areas remain caught in the middle, facing an uncertain future. The international community must continue to pressure both sides to find a peaceful solution to the conflict, and to ensure that the rights and safety of civilians are protected.
In the meantime, residents of Bukavu and surrounding areas can only hope that the violence will soon subside, and that they can return to their normal lives. The situation remains fluid, and it is unclear what the future holds for this troubled region.
