Tensions between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Rwanda, and Uganda are escalating, threatening to boil over into a full-blown war reminiscent of the devastating 1998-2003 conflict. This earlier war, which eventually involved nine African countries and 20 rebel groups, resulted in 5.4 million deaths. The current conflict centers on control over the DRC’s vast mineral resources, which are crucial for global industries, including electric vehicle batteries, cell phones, and refrigerators. The DRC’s president has accused Rwanda of sponsoring rebels destabilizing the country. Despite Rwanda’s denials, a recent UN report confirmed it indeed supports the M23 rebel group in eastern DRC. With over 120 armed militias in the region and increased military spending by the DRC, the risk of a wider war is high. Global and regional leaders must step in urgently to bring both countries to the negotiation table and prevent the threat of war.
SOURCE: BLOOMBERG
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