Desperate Journeys: Congolese flee conscription amid rising conflict

As conflict intensifies, a surge of refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo are risking their lives to escape conscription by M23 rebel forces, undertaking dangerous river crossings into Burundi to find safety.

Jordan Bita, a 25-year-old from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), recently made a harrowing journey across the Rusizi River to escape the clutches of M23 rebel fighters. Clutching a bin bag filled with essential belongings, he braved the raging waters that separate DR Congo from Burundi, expressing that fleeing by swimming was a better alternative than facing forced conscription into the rebel ranks.

"I managed to flee safely… because I was crossing through the forest and moving along the bushes instead of the main road," Bita recounted after making it across to the safe haven of Burundi. He and many others have fled as M23 rebels have rapidly seized key urban centers, including Goma and Bukavu, in the past weeks.

As Burundian troops monitor the Rusizi's banks, resistance to the M23 advances increases. Bita is among nearly 70,000 refugees who have crossed the border recently. Tensions remain high, as M23 forces, allegedly supported by Rwandan troops, continue to push southward, putting civilians at risk.

The anguish of the refugees is compounded by the dangers faced while crossing. Amani Sebakungu described his thoughts while navigating the treacherous river: "In the river, you just have to take heart and say if I die or survive, so be it." Tragically, reports indicate that at least 20 individuals have drowned while attempting to swim across the freezing currents, and many additional drownings may go unreported. Survivors like Clarice Kacindi recount gut-wrenching stories of loss, as she tragically lost her three-year-old during the hazardous crossing.

In the aftermath of their escape, many refugees are forced to contend with insufficient shelter and scarce food supplies. Thousands are crowded into makeshift accommodations such as tents and even a football stadium in Rugombo, where rationed meals are often the only sustenance. Meanwhile, men attempting to flee are frequently detained at the border, pressured to remain in Uvira to defend against the advancing M23.

Historically, the region has had a complicated relationship with ethnic dynamics, with Burundi deploying over 10,000 troops to assist DRC in combating the M23 threat, driven by fears of regional instability. As conflict rages, humanitarian organizations are sounding alarms about the overwhelming strain on resources and services to support the influx of refugees.

In a moment of profound reflection, 87-year-old Magega Mwarui shared: "I have fled to Burundi so many times. We cross this river carrying the little belongings we have left." Meanwhile, Charlotte Odile expressed a heartfelt desire for solace, stating that she seeks "a home for my children and peace" following the loss of her husband to the conflict.

Amidst the turmoil, organizations and officials are working to provide support as the number of those fleeing continues to rise. More urgent action is necessary to address the growing humanitarian crisis in the region.