What's the fighting in DR Congo all about?

The ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is deeply rooted in a complex history of ethnic tensions, mineral wealth, and foreign involvement. The main players in the current conflict are the M23 rebel group, which has taken control of several key cities in eastern DRC, including Goma and Bukavu. The M23, primarily led by ethnic Tutsis, rose to prominence after feeling marginalized and alleging broken promises from previous peace agreements.

The origins of the conflict can be traced back to the 1994 Rwandan genocide, which forced a large number of Hutus to flee to neighboring DRC, intensifying ethnic tensions in the region. The M23 claims it is protecting the Tutsi minority in the area, while also accusing the DRC government of not respecting agreements meant to protect Tutsis.

Rwanda has been accused of backing the M23, though it denies direct support. This conflict has worsened as armed groups, including the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), remain active in eastern DRC, with Rwanda accusing them of being genocidal militias. Additionally, DRC’s vast mineral wealth, including valuable resources like gold and coltan, has attracted both local and foreign exploitation, with the M23 controlling several lucrative mining areas.

Despite the presence of UN peacekeepers in the region, the ongoing violence has overwhelmed humanitarian efforts and has resulted in significant loss of life. The international community, including the Southern African Development Community (SADC), has struggled to stop the rebel advances, and there are growing concerns about the potential for further destabilization across the region.