Rebels Capture Second Key Airport in Eastern DR Congo, Advancing Toward Bukavu

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

M23 rebels and Rwandan troops have “seized” the airport serving Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, in eastern DR Congo. This airport is vital for distributing much-needed medical aid to the region.

The rebels are now advancing toward Bukavu, a city with a population of one million. According to reports, the rebels have already “taken control” of Goma airport after months of assault. “We are not stopping until we reach Kinshasa,” they have vowed, with the capital about 1,600 kilometers away.

The capture of Goma last month has triggered a severe humanitarian crisis, with nearly 1,000 people killed and over 100,000 displaced. The United Nations has called for the “immediate reopening” of Goma airport, which is crucial for delivering humanitarian aid.

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Chioma Ndukwu

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