DR Congo Conflict: Men Swim Across River to Escape Rebel Conscription

Men in eastern DR Congo are risking their lives to swim across the Rusizi River to escape conscription by M23 rebels. This migration has intensified due to recent conflicts resulting in mass displacements towards Burundi, where they face dire living conditions as the influx of refugees strains resources and heightens tensions. Uncertainty looms as the region grapples with ethnic rivalries and the threat of ongoing violence.

In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, men like 25-year-old Jordan Bita are risking their lives by swimming across the dangerous Rusizi River to escape conscription by M23 rebels. Clinging to a bag with his belongings, he faced treacherous currents to seek refuge in Burundi, highlighting the dire situation as conflict escalates in the region with cities like Goma and Bukavu falling to rebel control.

Bita took a perilous route through the forest to avoid detection by M23 fighters who are actively forcing individuals to join their ranks. Upon reaching the Burundian side safely, he recounted his experience, emphasizing the constant threat from the rebels who occupy the area. Burundian troops are monitoring the riverbanks where nearly 70,000 Congolese have fled to escape the fighting and seek sanctuary.

The situation in DR Congo has intensified recently, with fundamental cities captured by the M23 rebels, who are reportedly backed by Rwanda. Bita explained that his belongings were thoroughly checked by border troops to prevent weapons from crossing over, as he climbed up a hill to reach a refugee camp carrying vital supplies for his family.

Among those escaping, Amani Sebakungu expressed the mental strain of crossing the river, noting the risk of drowning while trying to survive. However, the situation is dangerous, with many reported drownings occurring during crossings, underscoring the peril that refugees face. Clarice Kacindi tragically shared her story of losing her child during a river crossing, appealing for an end to the conflict and expressing the devastation left behind.

In Rugombo, makeshift camps have emerged, providing shelter for the growing number of refugees. Those seeking asylum face overcrowding conditions with rationed food supplies, as awareness grows of the continuing influx into Burundi, which is struggling to cope with this humanitarian crisis. Reports indicate that mainly women and children are crossing, while men remain behind to defend their homes.

Burundi’s government has deployed troops to assist in combating the M23 rebels, particularly in Uvira, a city now under high alert due to the impending threat. The longstanding tension between Burundi and Rwanda complicates the situation, as both nations share similar ethnic challenges while fearing destabilization from the conflict.

Brigitte Mukanga-Eno of the UN refugee agency highlighted the pressing need for support to help Burundi manage the influx of refugees, emphasizing the need for harmony between the displaced and local communities affected by this crisis. Many refugees like Magega Mwarui recount repeated flights across the river to escape violence, indicating the relentless cycle of conflict plaguing the region. Charlotte Odile, a refugee herself, told of the recent loss of her husband to M23 violence, while expressing hope for a peaceful future for her children.

The ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has forced thousands to flee to Burundi, risking their lives in dangerous crossings. Men face conscription by rebel forces, leading to a humanitarian crisis characterized by rising numbers of refugees, precarious living conditions, and international concerns regarding regional stability. The need for urgent support and resources for both refugees and host communities has never been more critical.

Original Source: www.bbc.com