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Remote control: Rwandan proxies occupy Congo

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January 29, 2025

TLDR: Rebels linked to Rwanda have occupied territory in eastern Congo; analysts warn of Rwanda's belligerence potentially impacting Africa's map redrawal.

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In the latest episode of The Intelligence from The Economist, hosts Rosie Bloor and Jason Palmer delve into the surging tensions in eastern Congo, particularly the occupation of the strategic city of Goma by the M23 rebel group, a force allegedly backed by Rwanda. This episode examines the chaotic situation in Goma, the implications of Rwanda's actions, and broader geopolitical trends affecting Africa.

Summary of the Episode

The Takeover of Goma

  • The city of Goma, home to nearly 2 million people, has witnessed intense military engagement as the M23 rebels advanced towards the city.
  • Due to poor communication infrastructure, residents remain largely uninformed about the ongoing violence, relying on word-of-mouth reports amidst power and water outages.
  • The conflict intensified over the weekend, with M23 forces launching street battles against a mix of Congolese defenders, including special forces and militia groups.
  • Reports indicate that M23 has effectively taken control of the city, capturing critical infrastructure like the airport.

Rwanda's Role

  • Robert Guest, the deputy editor who has reported extensively in the region, highlights that the M23 rebels operate with significantly more sophistication than typical militias.
  • Observers argue that the M23 rebels are essentially a proxy for the Rwandan state, receiving modern arms and military support from Rwanda, validated by multiple accounts on the ground.
  • This situation is reminiscent of Russia's actions in Ukraine, where deniability was maintained while a state-backed group executed territory claims.

Motivations Behind Rwanda's Actions

  • Rwanda's motivations for the invasion appear twofold:
    • Security Concerns: Rwanda seeks to create a buffer zone amid longstanding fears of groups perceived as threats from the Rwandan Genocide era.
    • Economic Interests: Eastern Congo is home to vast mineral wealth, and Rwandan forces reportedly engage in the plundering of resources, particularly gold.

Humanitarian Crisis and Local Reactions

  • The takeover has devastating consequences for civilians, with reports of violence and atrocities, including mass displacements and ongoing hardships for around 8 million people in Congo.
  • Common experiences among refugees include loss of property, violence, and sexual assaults perpetrated by various armed groups, exacerbating the human sufferings.

The Bigger Picture

  • This occupation marks a worrying precedent where international peace norms regarding territorial integrity are increasingly ignored, raising concerns about future conflicts in Africa and beyond.
  • Guest suggests that the current international climate, especially with perceived changes in U.S. foreign policy, may embolden nations like Rwanda to continue such aggressive actions without significant consequences.

Conclusion: The Implications of Proxy Warfare

  • The episode concludes with a cautionary note about potential future conflicts, emphasizing how geopolitical changes could undermine established international laws against altering borders through force.
  • As the situation in eastern Congo evolves, the international community watches closely, with the fear that this could just be the beginning of a larger-scale conflict.

Additional Topics Discussed

The Threat of Microplastics

  • In a subsequent segment, the discussion shifts to the global implications of microplastics in human health.
  • Correspondent Slavaya Chankava elaborates on how microplastics have infiltrated the human body, linking them to various health risks, including heart disease and potential cancers. Awareness and precautionary measures are being suggested to mitigate exposure.

Rise of Astrology Apps Among Gen Z

  • The show also touches on the growing popularity of astrology, particularly among Gen Z, highlighting how technology and AI-driven platforms have revitalized interest in this ancient practice. This trend reflects broader societal shifts and the search for meaning in increasingly complex times.

This episode of The Intelligence provides critical insights into the current geopolitical, environmental, and cultural crises shaping our world, making it essential listening for anyone interested in global affairs.

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