M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have entered Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This marks a significant advance in their ongoing conflict with government forces in the region.

Rwandan-backed M23 rebels made significant advances in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo on Friday, capturing the Kavumu airport and entering Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province.

The rebels have been moving southward since seizing Goma, the largest city in the region, at the end of January. Their capture of Bukavu would represent a major expansion of their territory.

A spokesperson for the M23 confirmed that they were in control of the airport and surrounding areas, while reports from the ground indicated gunfire in Bukavu’s northern districts. The rebels were seen marching toward the city’s Bagira area, with local civil society leaders confirming their advance toward the city center.

The M23, supported by approximately 4,000 troops from neighboring Rwanda, is one of over 100 armed groups competing for control of eastern DRC’s mineral-rich region. Despite international calls for a ceasefire and renewed peace talks, the rebels have continued their offensive, taking key positions and displacing more than 350,000 people in the process.

The situation in Bukavu remains volatile, with the capture of the city potentially signaling a new phase in the ongoing insurgency.
 

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