Men Risk Drowning to Escape Rebel Conscription in DR Congo
The article discusses the alarming situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where men flee conscription by M23 rebels, risking their lives in dangerous river crossings to seek refuge in Burundi. Thousands have already escaped, leading to a humanitarian crisis characterized by overcrowded camps, limited resources, and rising tensions between refugees and host communities. Personal stories highlight the desperate circumstances faced by families as they navigate this conflict.
Jordan Bita, a young man from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, chose to risk his life swimming across the dangerous Rusizi River rather than face conscription by rebel forces known as M23. The 25-year-old carried a black bin bag filled with personal belongings as he braved the river’s strong currents to escape to Burundi, where safety was increasingly threatened by escalating violence. Over the past five weeks, the M23 rebels have captured significant urban centers including Goma and Bukavu, forcing thousands to flee.
Upon reaching the Burundian side, Mr. Bita recounted his perilous journey, stating, “I managed to flee safely… because I was crossing through the forest and moving along the bushes instead of the main road,” due to the pervasive presence of M23 fighters. With armed rebels requiring local men to join their ranks, many individuals are choosing desperate measures to seek refuge. The Burundian military has stationed troops along the riverbank to monitor crossings, as nearly 70,000 people have arrived in the region in just one month.
The conditions under which these refugees arrive are dire; many risk drowning in their attempt to cross the river. Reports indicate that at least 20 individuals have drowned in recent weeks while attempting to navigate the hazardous current, which can reach depths of 10 meters. Clarice Kacindi described her traumatic experience of losing her three-year-old child during a crossing, illustrating the desperation and tragedy faced by escaping families. “M23 are making our lives very difficult. They must stop this war,” she lamented.
Refugees are currently living in makeshift camps, including one at a local football stadium in Rugombo, where hundreds of tents have been erected to provide shelter. Yet, conditions are stark: many tents house up to 25 people, food is limited to one meal per day, and many others are forced to sleep outside under the stars. The ongoing conflict has also disrupted the usual flow of people and goods at border posts, with security officials restricting movement to prevent able-bodied men from crossing into Burundi.
Burundi has deployed over 10,000 troops in support of DR Congo in the fight against M23, raising concerns for the safety and stability in both nations. As tensions mount, local officials express worries regarding potential clashes between refugees and host communities. “We need to support this country in receiving the refugees to improve the conditions of those that are still making their way to Burundi,” remarked Brigitte Mukanga-Eno from the UN refugee agency.
Years of conflict in this troubled region have left a lasting impact on its inhabitants. Magega Mwarui, an elderly Congolese woman, reflects on her experiences of fleeing violence, stating, “I have fled to Burundi so many times. We cross this river carrying the little belongings we have left.” Charlotte Odile, another refugee seeking safety in Burundi after the loss of her husband to rebel violence, hopes for a better future for her children in this tumultuous landscape.
The ongoing conflict between Congolese rebels and government forces has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with thousands fleeing to Burundi to escape violence and conscription. Personal testimonies reveal the drastic measures individuals have taken to seek safety, navigating treacherous waters and facing immense hardships. The international community and local governments are urged to provide support to manage the growing number of refugees and ensure their safety and well-being while addressing the root causes of the conflict.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
