Burundi Troops Withdraw from DRC as Refugee Crisis Escalates

Burundi is withdrawing troops from DRC as violence escalates, leading to a refugee wave, the largest in 25 years. Over 30,000 refugees have entered Burundi, fleeing violence from the M23 group, with many in urgent need of assistance. The situation raises fears of a regional conflict, drawing attention from international organizations.

Burundi has expedited the withdrawal of troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amid escalating violence, leading to a significant influx of refugees. This situation marks the highest number of refugees entering Burundi in 25 years, as armed groups, particularly the Rwandan-backed M23, continue to capture key cities such as Goma and Bukavu in eastern DRC. The UN has voiced concerns regarding M23’s aggressive advances toward vital areas in North and South Kivu provinces.

A senior military official indicated that the Burundian army is efficiently extracting their soldiers from the Rusizi plain in DRC, with one battalion deployed to ensure a secure withdrawal. The official noted severe resupply challenges faced by the Burundian forces, attributing these issues to disorganized Congolese troops. As a result, Burundian soldiers are reportedly struggling without adequate ammunition and supplies.

The UNHCR representative highlighted a remarkable surge in refugees, with approximately 30,000 individuals having crossed into Burundi, citing recent violence as the catalyst. Many of these refugees are escaping the power shift in Bukavu, approximately 50 kilometers from the Burundian border. One refugee recounted their urgent decision to flee due to indiscriminate gunfire from armed groups.

Refugees are currently experiencing dire conditions, with inadequate food supply and shelter, leading to illness among the most vulnerable. The Burundian government plans to relocate refugees to eastern regions of the country for safety and will provide them with refugee status. Furthermore, prior to this recent surge, Burundi was already hosting about 90,000 Congolese refugees from earlier conflicts in the DRC.

Concerns over a potential regional conflict are rising due to M23’s proximity to the borders of Rwanda and Burundi. The UN has emphasized the risk of a broader conflict reminiscent of the Second Congo War, which had devastating impacts. In response to these developments, the United States has imposed sanctions against a Rwandan minister implicated in supporting M23, despite Rwanda’s denial of involvement in the ongoing hostilities.

In sum, Burundi’s military withdrawal from DRC amid advancing M23 forces has precipitated a substantial refugee crisis, marking the largest influx of refugees into Burundi in decades. The severity of operational challenges faced by Burundian troops and the dire conditions for refugees underscore an urgent humanitarian situation. Regional tensions are escalating, prompting international scrutiny and actions aimed at mitigating further conflict.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr