Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis: Congolese Refugees Flee to Burundi Amidst Conflict
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC has led thousands of Congolese to flee to Burundi to escape recruitment by M23 rebel forces. Many face grim conditions as they seek refuge, underlining the urgent need for international aid and support for both refugees and host communities in Burundi.
In the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), many individuals, like 25-year-old Jordan Bita, are fleeing to Burundi, attempting to escape forcible recruitment by M23 rebel forces. Bita used a makeshift raft to cross the Rusizi River, worried for his life as M23 fighters aggressively pressured locals to join their ranks against the Congolese government.
Reports indicate that approximately 70,000 Congolese have sought refuge in Burundi recently, as M23 rebels take control of key cities in eastern DRC, supported allegedly by Rwanda. Bita emphasized, “I managed to flee without any restrictions… I had to use the forest to bypass roads.”
After successfully crossing, Bita’s journey linked him to a camp near Rugombo, where his family had already arrived. Refugees face dire conditions; they are provided with minimal food and often have to share crowded tents. Other individuals endure harrowing experiences, such as 87-year-old Magega Mwarui, who has fled the violence numerous times throughout her life.
Reports cite instances of tragic loss among the fleeing, including Clarice Kacindi, who lost her three-year-old child during the treacherous river crossing. It is imperative to ensure the safety of these refugees as they escape to Burundi, where they face considerable risks and challenges. Burundi has deployed over 10,000 troops to assist in managing the conflict spillover, which only increases tensions between this small nation and its eastern neighbor.
The humanitarian crisis stemming from the conflict between the DRC government and M23 rebels is alarming, with thousands fleeing to Burundi in search of safety. The Republic of Burundi faces challenges in accommodating the influx of refugees while maintaining security amidst ongoing tensions with Rwanda. The urgent need for international support and intervention remains critical as these individuals encounter dangerous conditions during their escape.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
