Rebel forces with the backing of Rwanda have successfully seized control of the town of Masisi in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, as confirmed by several reports. This marks the second town overtaken by the M23 group within a span of two days in the resource-rich North Kivu province. The M23 faction has progressively claimed dominance over extensive areas in the eastern part of the DR Congo since 2021, leading to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of individuals from their homes.
Efforts have been made by Angola to mediate discussions between President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. Unfortunately, these attempts crumbled last month, exacerbating the already fragile situation. Expressing his concern, Alexis Bahunga, a member of the North Kivu provincial assembly, conveyed to the AFP news agency the distressing news of Masisi falling into the hands of the M23 rebels. This development has plunged the region into a severe humanitarian crisis, prompting urgent calls for the government to enhance the military presence in the area.
A resident recounted to AFP how the M23 group conducted a meeting with the town’s residents, declaring their mission as one of liberation for the country. The Congolese authorities have not yet released any formal statement regarding the loss of control over Masisi. The casualty toll from the clashes between the M23 rebels, the army, and pro-government militias remains unclear, with reports indicating relative calm prevailing in the town on Sunday.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, Chinese nationals were apprehended in the DR Congo with gold bars and a substantial amount of cash totaling $800,000, underscoring the complex challenges faced in the region. Masisi, serving as the administrative hub for a population of approximately 40,000, stands as the focal point of the territory bearing the same name. Situated around 80km (50 miles) to the north of Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu, Masisi witnessed a brief occupation by the M23 in 2012, hinting at the persistent volatility in the area.
Recently, the M23 group also managed to capture the nearby town of Katale, further consolidating their control over strategic locations. Concerns arose last year regarding the potential advancement of the M23 towards Goma, a densely populated city with around two million inhabitants. Following a period of relative calm, hostilities resurged in early December, highlighting the precarious security situation prevailing in the region.
Accusations have surfaced suggesting Rwanda’s involvement in supporting the M23 rebels through the deployment of around 4,000 soldiers in the DR Congo. Rwanda, in turn, has criticized the Congolese government for its perceived inaction in addressing prolonged conflicts in the eastern part of the country. Allegations have been made against the authorities in the DR Congo for collaborating with individuals linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide targeting ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hut
