Escaping Conflict: The Perilous Journey of Refugees from DR Congo to Burundi
The conflict in eastern DR Congo has forced individuals, particularly men, to endanger their lives by swimming across the treacherous Rusizi River to escape conscription by M23 rebels. Nearly 70,000 refugees have entered Burundi recently, facing significant risks and hardships. The UN refugee agency has raised alarms over the challenges presented by this unprecedented influx of displaced persons.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), men are risking their lives to escape conscription by the M23 rebels, preferring to swim across the perilous Rusizi River to reach safety in Burundi. Jordan Bita, a 25-year-old, clutched a bag of personal items while navigating the strong currents, stating, “I managed to flee safely… because I was crossing through the forest and moving along the bushes instead of the main road.”
As M23 rebels continue to advance, capturing major cities such as Goma and Bukavu, nearly 70,000 people have sought refuge in Burundi over the last month. In Cibitoke province, Burundian troops supervise the border, filtering out Congolese families and confiscating weapons during inspections as they cross into Burundi. Upon arriving, Bita carried essential food supplies for his family already residing in a makeshift camp.
Amani Sebakungu, another fleeing individual, expressed the daunting nature of crossing the river, saying, “In the river you just have to take heart and say if I die or survive so be it. God willed I crossed safely.” Unfortunately, the dangers of the crossing are evident, with at least 20 reported drownings in recent weeks.
Clarice Kacindi experienced a devastating loss while attempting to cross, recalling, “One of my children was lying on the raft in front of me… when we reached the middle of the river the raft broke into two and my child was swept away.” As refugees find shelter in crowded tents, food is rationed, and many face homelessness without adequate provisions.
Burundian officials have imposed a policy restricting men from crossing the border to defend their homeland, leaving predominantly women and children to flee. The tense situation in Uvira, where Burundian troops are stationed, escalates as M23 rebels advance southwards. Burundi’s government fears the consequences of the conflict on its own stability, particularly the potential resurgence of Burundian rebel groups.
Brigitte Mukanga-Eno from the UN refugee agency emphasized the worsening crisis, stating, “It is terrible for Burundi. This is the first time in more than 20 years for the country to receive this large number of refugees.” Refugees like Magega Mwarui, who has fled multiple times, and Charlotte Odile, a widow seeking peace for her children, embody the human cost of this humanitarian crisis.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo has driven thousands to flee to Burundi, risking their lives in the process. The situation highlights the dire consequences of armed conflict, particularly for vulnerable populations. With the M23 rebels advancing, the plight of those seeking refuge is becoming increasingly urgent, necessitating international assistance and attention to prevent further tragedy.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
