Eastern Congo's Escalating Conflict: A Humanitarian Crisis

Eastern Congo is in the midst of a serious crisis. Over 400 innocent people have lost their lives in recent clashes. The M23 group, backed by Rwanda, has intensified its attacks in South Kivu. This is happening despite a recent peace deal between Congo and Rwanda, which didn't include the M23 group. The fighting has spread to the important city of Uvira. This city is a key port on Lake Tanganyika. The M23 group claims it now controls Uvira. They even told people who fled to come back. But the situation is far from safe. The U. N. is deeply worried about the rising violence. The Secretary-General called for an immediate stop to the fighting. Meanwhile, Burundi is also feeling the impact. Over 30, 000 refugees have crossed into Burundi in just three days. The conflict is about more than just land. Eastern Congo is rich in minerals. Many armed groups want control of this area. This has created a huge humanitarian crisis. Over 7 million people have been forced to leave their homes. The U. S. and U. N. blame Rwanda for supporting the M23 group. Rwanda denies this but admits it has troops in Congo for security. The African Union is urging all sides to find a peaceful solution.