Burundi Military Withdrawal Escalates Amidst Refugee Crisis from DR Congo

Burundi is withdrawing troops from the DRC as M23 forces escalate their advance, prompting a refugee crisis with over 30,000 people fleeing into Burundi. The UN reports worsening conditions for Burundian soldiers in DRC, and many refugees report severe shortages of food and shelter. There are fears of broader regional conflict reminiscent of the Second Congo War.

Burundi has expedited the withdrawal of some military forces deployed in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as the United Nations reported that the nation is experiencing its most significant influx of refugees from DRC in 25 years. The situation has escalated with Rwandan-backed M23 forces gaining control of key eastern cities, prompting concerns about broader regional instability.

The UN noted that M23 continues to advance towards critical areas in the North and South Kivu provinces. As a response, a senior army officer revealed that the withdrawal of Burundian troops from the Rusizi plain has been initiated, although specific numbers of withdrawing soldiers were not disclosed.

Since October 2023, over 10,000 Burundian soldiers were deployed to assist the Congolese army against M23 and other armed factions. Challenges such as severe resupply issues afflict these Burundian troops, with allegations of deterioration in coordination with Congolese military forces compounding their difficulties.

Reports of a tactical withdrawal from the DRC by Burundian troops had been denied earlier this week, despite increasing pressure on the soldiers due to shortages of essential supplies, including ammunition and food.

A significant wave of refugees has begun migrating into Burundi, marking the highest influx observed since the early 2000s. UNHCR representative Brigitte Mukanga-Eno confirmed that thousands of people have crossed the border, estimating around 30,000 recent arrivals who are escaping the escalating violence, particularly in the wake of M23’s advance towards Bukavu.

Many refugees are recounting harrowing experiences, such as Kitenge, who stated, “We preferred to flee for our lives” after armed groups commenced indiscriminate firing. Others, including older refugees, are appealing for immediate assistance, reporting dire conditions without food or shelter.

Burundi’s Interior Minister Martin Niteretse indicated the government’s plan to relocate refugees to eastern regions of Burundi for their safety and to extend refugee status to them. Before this influx, Burundi was already hosting approximately 90,000 Congolese who escaped previous conflicts in the DRC.

The fear of further regional conflict has grown as the M23 advances, nearing a strategic point at the borders of DRC, Rwanda, and Burundi, raising apprehensions about another significant war akin to the Second Congo War. The United States has announced sanctions against a Rwandan minister due to alleged support for M23, even as Rwanda maintains its denial of involvement in the ongoing conflict.

In summary, Burundi’s military is withdrawing troops from the DRC amid a significant surge of refugees fleeing escalating violence instigated by M23 forces. The humanitarian situation is dire, with refugees in desperate need of assistance. The growing concern over regional stability highlights the importance of international diplomatic efforts to address the unrest and its consequences for neighboring countries.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr