The M23 rebel group has continued its offensive in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), capturing key locations and moving dangerously close to Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province.
The latest developments have left residents in fear, with many fleeing their homes for safety.
According to reports, the rebels seized the town of Kabamba on February 14, 2025.
This strategic victory allowed them to push forward into Katana, just a short distance from Kavumu Airport.
The airport is a critical military and logistical hub, and its loss weakens the position of government forces.
“If we cannot control Kavumu, then defending Bukavu will be very difficult,” said a senior security officer.
By taking the airport, the M23 has cut off a vital supply route for the Congolese army and humanitarian aid organizations, making it harder for relief efforts to reach affected civilians.
With the rebels advancing, gunfire has been reported in parts of Bukavu, especially in Kazingu and Bagira. Panic has spread among residents, forcing thousands to leave their homes.
“We packed what we could and left immediately. We have no idea where we will sleep tonight,” said Mama Chantal, a mother of four, as she boarded a truck heading towards safer areas.
Many families are now seeking shelter in churches and community centers. Pastor David, who has opened his church to fleeing families, described the situation as heartbreaking.
“We are praying for peace, but we don’t know what will happen if the rebels reach here,” he said.
The ongoing conflict has displaced around 350,000 people. Aid organizations are struggling to provide food, water, and medicine.
“We simply do not have enough supplies for everyone,” a Red Cross official said.
Regional and International Response
The Congolese government has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels, a claim Rwanda has denied. President Felix Tshisekedi is now seeking international help and has attended the Munich Security Conference and the upcoming African Union summit in Ethiopia.
Meanwhile, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) have called for peace, but the fighting continues.
“We have respected the ceasefire, but the rebels clearly have not,” said FARDC spokesman Colonel Jean Matondo.
With Bukavu now in the rebels’ sights, the people of South Kivu can only hope for a peaceful resolution before more lives are lost.