Burundi Troops and Hutu Rebels Influence M23’s Campaign Towards Goma

Burundian troops and the FDLR militia significantly influenced M23’s march on Goma, leading to a series of military engagements in North and South Kivu. Following initial setbacks, M23 employed strategic counteroffensives resulting in regained control over key territories. The successful tactics culminated in the capture of Goma on January 28, showcasing M23’s military effectiveness amidst intense conflict.

In the context of the ongoing conflict in Congo-Kinshasa, Burundian troops, along with the notorious FDLR militia, impacted the march of the M23 rebels towards Goma significantly. The FDLR, a group previously associated with the Rwandan genocide, has been labeled a terrorist organization by both the UN and the US. Realizing their challenges, Congolese army spokesman Lt. Col. Guillaume Ndjike Kaiko remarked on the setbacks faced by the rebels during military operations in North Kivu on January 12, 2025.

Despite initial successes in occupying territories, M23 forces strategically retreated to regroup, ultimately leading to decisive counteroffensives that reclaimed lost areas. By January 17, M23 positioned itself to expand its territory after its adversaries, led by Burundi and bolstered by the FDLR, faltered during combat engagements. The strategic town of Minova became a focal point in these operations, serving as a critical supply hub prior to M23’s control.

With conflicts shifting, M23 effectively employed a phased strategy whereby their forces would reoccupy lost territories such as Minova and nearby regions by January 20. This measured approach facilitated further advances, including tactical maneuvers aimed at securing critical positions. The operational plan also involved collaboration between multiple battalions, each tasked with specific missions to minimize confrontations while maximizing the element of surprise.

The engagement at Mubambiro on January 23 was particularly intense, with M23 forces encountering surprising opposition from South African troops under the SAMIDRC mission. Despite being caught off guard, M23 soldiers executed well-coordinated assaults leading to significant losses for the opposing coalition. Notably, the operational success of M23 during this phase underscored their strategic prowess despite being outnumbered. The fall of Mubambiro and subsequent locations along the Goma-Sake corridor marked critical advancements in M23’s campaign.

As M23 consolidated control in the region, the conflict progressed into its subsequent phases. The targeting of key coalition leaders, such as then North Kivu governor Gen. Peter Chirimwami, exemplified the aggressive tactics utilized by M23. Their relentless march continued, with operational plans successfully executed along the eastern front towards Goma. The eventual capture of Goma on January 28 represented a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict, showcasing the effectiveness of M23’s strategies amidst a volatile landscape.

The article outlines the intricate dynamics of recent military engagements in Congo-Kinshasa, spotlighting the role of Burundian troops and the FDLR in igniting conflict with M23. The counteroffensive tactics employed by M23, despite initially losing territorial control, proved effective in regaining lost ground and executing strategic advancements. The culmination of these efforts led to the pivotal capture of Goma, illustrating the M23’s tactical prowess and the volatility surrounding ongoing confrontations.

Original Source: allafrica.com