KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of Congo — The security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) grew more uncertain on Wednesday as the M23 rebel group advanced toward the strategic border town of Uvira, according to four independent sources, including local residents and officials familiar with the developments. Their accounts indicate that fighters affiliated with M23 were seen entering parts of the town, raising fears of further instability in an already volatile region.
Uvira, with an estimated population of more than 200,000, sits along a major commercial route linking DRC to neighboring Burundi. The town’s location makes it a significant political and economic hub. Any shift in control there is likely to have consequences for humanitarian access, trade, and regional security.
A Rapid Advance Through the East
The reported movement into Uvira marks another step in M23’s southward progression through South Kivu Province. Earlier in the week, M23 gained control over Luvungi, a town that had served for months as a frontline buffer between Congolese government forces and the rebels. Fighting has also been reported around the towns of Sange and Kiliba, which lie along the same north–south route leading into Uvira.
Residents who spoke to reporters described hearing bursts of gunfire near the outskirts of the town on Wednesday afternoon, creating uncertainty over whether Congolese forces still hold key positions. Local administrators have not publicly confirmed or denied a change in control, and the Congolese army has issued no immediate statement.
Although M23 has not released an official declaration regarding Uvira, the group has repeatedly stated that its operations are aimed at protecting Congolese communities — a claim the government strongly rejects.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue Despite Escalation
The latest developments come less than a week after a high-level diplomatic meeting in Washington, where Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame held discussions with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Their talks reaffirmed support for an ongoing U.S.-mediated peace initiative that aims to curb violence in eastern Congo.
Despite these diplomatic engagements, fighting on the ground has not slowed, raising questions about the effectiveness of international mediation in the short term.
Rwanda’s Denial and International Assessments
The government of Rwanda continues to deny allegations that it provides support to M23. Kigali maintains that any Rwandan military presence in the DRC is for defensive purposes only, alleging that hostile armed groups operate close to its border.
However, both the United Nations and the United States have publicly stated that multiple investigations show evidence of Rwandan backing for the rebel movement. These reports highlight logistics, troop movements, and supply chains believed to originate from Rwandan territory.
Rwanda has consistently challenged these assessments, accusing the international community of misinterpreting regional security dynamics. Meanwhile, the DRC government insists that Rwanda’s involvement is a central factor in the conflict.
Humanitarian Concerns Rising
The renewed clashes pose a serious risk to civilians. Tens of thousands of people in eastern Congo have already been displaced this year due to fighting between M23 and government forces. Aid organizations warn that additional displacement around Uvira could further strain shelters, food supplies, and medical services in surrounding districts.
Road access is also a concern. The main north–south route through Uvira serves as a lifeline for transporting goods and humanitarian assistance. Any disruption could isolate communities farther north.
Uncertain Outlook
As of Wednesday evening, the exact status of Uvira remained unclear. Reports of gunfire, coupled with sightings of rebel fighters, suggest that the situation is rapidly evolving. Analysts caution that even partial rebel presence in the town could shift regional dynamics and possibly draw more international attention.
For now, residents remain in a state of uncertainty, awaiting clearer information from authorities and hoping for a peaceful resolution.
Source:Africa Publicity
