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Turkey to resolve conflict between Congo and Rwanda
A war is raging in eastern Congo. It involves the DRC’s (Democratic Republic of the Congo) regular army and the M23 group, backed by the Rwandan army. Tensions have been rising for several days. Turkey offers to mediate.
In rebellion against the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) since March 23, 2012, the M23 group regularly undertakes military actions in North Kivu. Despite a ceasefire between November 2013 and November 2021, the rebels have taken up arms again. Since then, the M23 has received support from Rwanda. In recent days, fighting has intensified near Sake and Kibumba, north of Goma. Heavy weapons are being used, and the daily life of inhabitants is marked by heavy gunfire.
Several actors
To defend its territory and counter M23 attacks, the FARDC regular Congolese army uses helicopters and mortars. It also counts on the Wazalendos self-defense groups and the support of a coalition of Southern African countries, led by South Africa. Monusco’s Blue Helmets are also part of Operation Springbok. The aim of the latter is to protect civilians in North Kivu through “defensive” actions against the M23 rebels. The latter have no hesitation in attacking the positions of UN troops.
Turkey’s role
The conflict itself began over 30 years ago in the Great Lakes region. There is now a real risk of conflagration and regional war. Given the recent worsening of the situation, and the new technological war of jamming communications and GPS, Turkey wants to position itself as a mediator. Based on the strength of its experience in bringing peace between Ethiopia and Somalia, Ankara is offering “to provide all necessary assistance to resolve [the crisis] between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo”, according to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during the visit of his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame on Thursday, January 23, 2025.
