Category: Regional conflict

Diplomatic relations between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) took a sharp turn this past weekend, as the DRC recalled its embassy staff from Kigali amidst escalating tensions linked to the ongoing conflict involving the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels. In a statement released on Saturday, the DRC’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the decision to withdraw its diplomats from Rwanda, citing growing concerns over the situation. The statement also ordered the Rwandan embassy in Kinshasa to halt all diplomatic and consular activities within 48 hours. The… Read More Here

On Monday, July 8, the United States condemned the ongoing illegal trade of minerals from conflict zones in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The State Department emphasized that these natural resources transit through Rwanda and Uganda before reaching other countries for refining. These minerals, including gold and tantalum, are often extracted in artisanal and semi-industrial manners and play a significant role in funding the conflict. “These minerals often benefit armed groups and leave the country via Rwanda and Uganda before being transported to major refining and processing countries,” the… Read More Here

China has called for accountability from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following a tragic incident in Djugu, Ituri province, where six Chinese nationals were killed in a targeted attack by militiamen from the Congo Development Cooperative (CODECO). In a statement issued through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, China urged the Congolese government to swiftly apprehend those responsible for the murders and ensure they face justice for their heinous acts against Chinese citizens. Beijing emphasized the need for the DRC to enhance the protection of all its nationals within Congolese… Read More Here

Several mining operators were forced to abandon their sites in Mangurujipa, located in the Lubero territory of North Kivu, according to reports received by MINES.CD on Friday, June 14, 2024, from local civil society groups. Local sources indicated that numerous abandoned mining sites have fallen under the control of militiamen, who have increased taxes to the detriment of the operators. “Most mining operators have abandoned their sites due to continuous harassment by Mayi-Mayi militiamen, who also identify themselves as Wazalendo. These militiamen demand significant contributions from the operators, forcing them… Read More Here

“All independent reports show that at least 80 percent of the minerals exported by Rwanda are of Congolese origin,” revealed the Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) during an interview with Human Rights Watch in Kinshasa. This statement comes amidst escalating tensions between Kinshasa and Kigali, with both sides leveling accusations against each other. The DRC has long condemned the plundering of its minerals, particularly since the onset of the conflict led by Rwanda under the guise of the M23 rebel group. The… Read More Here

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has confirmed the death of one of its peacekeeping soldiers following violent clashes with M23 rebels near the city of Sake in North Kivu province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The city is located 27 kilometers west of Goma. The SANDF reported that 13 other soldiers were wounded in the intense confrontation with the M23 rebels. The clashes were triggered by an ambush initially launched by the Congolese army (FARDC), to which the M23 rebels retaliated fiercely. “The members of the SANDF came… Read More Here