The M23 rebel group, allegedly backed by Rwanda, is advancing south towards Bukavu, the largest city in eastern DRC.
M23 reportedly targeting biggest city in eastern DRC
Security sources and diplomatic observers have confirmed that M23 troops are pushing towards Nyabibwe, a critical defensive position just 34km from Kavumu National Airport and 60km from Bukavu’s city centre.
If the militia successfully captures Bukavu, it would mark the most significant territorial expansion by M23 since the end of Congo’s major war two decades ago.
This development has sparked fears of a direct military confrontation between Rwanda and Burundi, which has troops stationed along the DRC border.
Since taking control of Goma last week, M23 has continued its offensive, reportedly advancing from Minova, on the western side of Lake Kivu, in what analysts describe as an attempt to consolidate control over North and South Kivu.
Sources warn that an escalation in the region could draw in multiple nations, heightening the risk of a broader regional war.
Fighting between the rebels and DRC forces (FARDC) remains intense, with over 25 reported deaths in Goma alone.
The SANDF situation, according to Angie Motshekga
Defence Minister Angie Motshekga has assured that no attacks on SANDF bases in Goma have occurred in the past 48 hours.
Speaking at an emergency media briefing, she confirmed that while fighting in Goma continues between M23 and the Congolese army, SANDF troops have not engaged in further combat.
“So far, 13 South African soldiers have been killed in the fighting, and our government is working to get our troops out of Goma,” Motshekga said.
She reiterated that SANDF did not surrender to M23, explaining that the widely circulated “white flag” video showed a temporary truce to allow both sides to retrieve their dead.
“The ceasefire we requested from M23 remains in place, and our soldiers have not been attacked since.”
Deputy Defence Minister Bantu Holomisa expressed concerns over the lack of support from allied forces, stating that South African troops were effectively abandoned by Congolese forces and some SAMIDRC allies.
“The troops of Congo surrendered, and suddenly, our forces were left exposed,” Holomisa said, adding that despite the challenges, SANDF soldiers held their positions.
Motshekga also dismissed reports that SANDF soldiers had run out of food and ammunition. She stated that during her visit to the troops last week, no generals reported supply shortages.
However, reinforcements were sent due to the escalating conflict.
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa remains in diplomatic discussions with regional leaders, including Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, urging a ceasefire.
The African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are also engaged in efforts to find a political resolution to the crisis.
Angola’s President João Lourenço, who mediates peace talks between DRC and Rwanda, has called for the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan troops from Congolese territory.
He described the occupation of Goma as a violation of the Luanda Peace Process and urged a return to negotiations.