**A Revealing Report on the Conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Echoes of a Continuing War**
This Wednesday, a report by the United Nations group of experts struck like a bolt from the blue in the already dark skies of the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Revealing close ties between Rwandan political-military authorities, General Sultani Makenga, leader of the March 23 Movement (M23), and Corneille Nangaa of the Congo River Alliance (AFC), this document illustrates once again the complexity and depth of the geopolitical issues in this region torn apart by conflict.
What makes this report shocking is the light it sheds on the chain of command that exists between these actors, even as ceasefire agreements continue to be weakened. The explicit involvement of the Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF) in the M23 maneuvers is not a surprise to long-time observers, but it underscores a systematic occupation strategy that could reshape the political and territorial future of the entire region.
Another crucial point: as the M23 has intensified its actions, it finds itself in coalition with the AFC. This alliance does not represent just a fusion of forces, but a combination of human and military resources, mobilizing local armed groups to strengthen their hold in newly conquered areas. The report also mentions controversial figures such as René Abandi and Jean-Marie Runiga who, despite international sanctions, are recalled as part of this coalition, to strengthen the paramilitary and civilian apparatus.
**A New Occupation Strategy?**
The question that arises is not only whether the M23, supported by Rwanda, is carrying out a systematic invasion; it is also the way in which this dynamic combines economic, political and social interests on the ground. We can draw a parallel with other recent conflicts in Africa where the militarization of the economy has often been a strategy to legitimize political ambitions. For example, in Libya, various armed groups have also used territorial conquest as a means of accessing precious oil resources.
Experts believe that in the DRC, natural resources play an equally decisive role. Gold, coltan and other minerals are strategic assets not only for the Congolese belligerents, but also for the international actors who support these wars by supplying weapons or investing in mining infrastructure. The occupation of mineral-rich areas would allow the AFC-M23 coalition to not only establish itself militarily but also economically.
**The Risk of Long-Term Latent Conflict**
Moving beyond the purely military and political considerations, it is important to consider the social consequences of this protracted war. The UN report, while highlighting the military operations, does not adequately address the burden this represents for the local population. Population displacement, human rights violations and social destabilization are taking on catastrophic proportions.
The DRC is one of the countries with the population most affected by forced displacement, with nearly 5.5 million internally displaced people. What will happen if the AFC-M23 coalition succeeds in establishing de facto power in the conquered areas, and what will be the impacts on governance within these territories? Living conditions could worsen, deepening the cycle of poverty and reinforcing mistrust and division among communities.
**A Call to Awareness**
In this context, the narrative of the conflict in the DRC goes beyond mere political analysis. The human, economic and societal dimensions must be brought to light. The UN report calls for a serious international response; however, the international community must impose stricter measures and act with speed to prevent the DRC from becoming a laboratory for military experiments in the service of hidden interests.
International bodies must re-examine the roles of neighboring countries, particularly Rwanda, and their responsibility in the continued deterioration of the situation in the DRC. A multidimensional approach, integrating human rights, protection of the population and targeted sanctions against key figures, could offer a chance to restore peace and stability in this vitally important region.
Ultimately, this report is not just a statement of facts. It is a cry of alarm, revealing a complex reality that the world must understand in order to act. The DRC deserves a future without violence, where its resources can benefit its population instead of being the new El Dorado of armed groups. The chambers of decision-makers must resonate with the urgency of this cause. At a time when regional conflicts are multiplying, a real awareness is needed, both for local actors and for the international community.