M23 rebels are tearing through DR Congo, leaving destruction in their wake and alarming regional and world leaders who fear a prolonged war. Kinshasa blames Kigali for fueling the insurgency, an accusation Rwanda denies. Reports suggest M23's control over mineral-rich areas is fueling illicit trade, with Western commodity traders and tech firms accused of profiting from "blood minerals." As fighting escalates, diplomatic efforts lag behind. African leaders push for a diplomatic solution, and even Russia's UN envoy Vassily Nebenzia has called for an immediate ceasefire. But with the rebels seizing Bukavu and thousands displaced, the crisis worsens.
African Currents interviewed Dr. Anslem Wongibeh Adunimay, a postdoctoral Fellow in Politics and International Relations at the University of Johannesburg, for insights into the escalating conflict in eastern DR Congo.
"The crux behind the war in the eastern region of the DRC is its minerals [...]. Hence, the conflict in the DRC is a structural necessity for Rwanda [...] So, sanctions are of the essence here. Sanctions that will actually corner Rwanda, and ensure that Kigali understands that the principles of territorial integrity and sovereignty are sacrosanct [...]. A state like Russia will go a long way to help in resolving the crisis in the DRC. Russia doesn't stand out like one of the colonial masters because there is this thinking that is given to countries of the West; I mean, France and the UK are seen as colonizers. And inasmuch as they are key players in the region, when they come in, it is to safeguard their interest," Dr. Adunimay said.
To find out what else our guest had to say, tune in to the African Currents podcast, brought to you by Sputnik Africa.
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