Overview

• The Rwanda-supported M23 rebel group has taken control of Goma and Bukavu, two major cities in eastern Congo, marking a significant escalation in the conflict.
• The rebellion has displaced nearly 3 million people over the past 14 months, with thousands fleeing to neighboring countries like Burundi and Rwanda for safety.
• Congo’s government accuses Rwanda of deploying thousands of troops to assist the rebels, while Rwanda denies involvement despite evidence from U.N. investigators.
• The conflict has disrupted daily life in rebel-held areas, with banking systems shut down, essential services struggling to resume, and residents facing severe economic hardships.
• Regional tensions are intensifying, with Burundi and Uganda both deploying troops to the area, while international sanctions and mediation efforts have so far failed to halt the violence.