M23 Rebels Capture Key Airport Near Bukavu as Conflict Escalates in Eastern DR Congo

The M23 rebel group has seized control of the airport in Kavumu, a key strategic point serving the city of Bukavu, as their advance in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) intensifies. 

This latest development comes despite growing international pressure for a ceasefire and renewed peace talks.  

The rebel group, which is backed by neighboring Rwanda, has already forced the displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilians in recent weeks. Their latest victory places them just 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province.  

The Congolese army and allied militia reportedly withdrew from Kavumu without significant resistance, allowing the rebels to take control of the airport with ease. However, Deputy Governor Jean Elekano told the **BBC** that heavy fighting is ongoing on the outskirts of Bukavu, with government forces still holding their ground and pushing back against the militants.  

Residents of Bukavu have expressed rising fear and uncertainty as the rebels inch closer to the city. Authorities have urged civilians to remain indoors amid concerns of further violence.  

The rebel advance comes as African leaders gather in Ethiopia for an **African Union (AU) summit**, where the crisis in eastern DR Congo is expected to dominate discussions. AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat emphasized the need for a ceasefire, warning that “military campaigns are not going to solve these problems.”  

The AU and other international stakeholders have called for a halt to the fighting and a diplomatic resolution to the crisis. However, M23’s continued advance suggests a worsening humanitarian situation, with no immediate solution in sight.  

The Congolese government has repeatedly accused Rwanda of backing M23 and illegally annexing mineral-rich territories in the east, allegations that Kigali has denied. Rwanda, in turn, claims it is acting in self-defense against Hutu rebels in DR Congo, with President Paul Kagame insisting that his country’s priority is security. Kagame has dismissed the possibility of sanctions and has shown little sign of backing down.  

With the rebels now controlling both Goma and Kavumu airport, tensions are at a boiling point. The international community will be watching closely to see whether regional leaders can broker a ceasefire or if the crisis will escalate further, plunging eastern DR Congo into deeper turmoil.  

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