Brussels/Kinshasa – The Belgian Embassy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has issued a warning to its citizens, urging them to reconsider their presence in several eastern provinces due to worsening security conditions.
The advisory specifically applies to Tanganyika, Haut-Lomami, Lualaba, and Haut-Katanga, regions that have been experiencing growing instability in recent months.
In its statement, the embassy advised Belgians in these areas to “assess the necessity of their presence,” highlighting that while the security landscape is deteriorating, departure options remain available for now.
Commercial flights to key cities such as Kalemie, Kolwezi, and Lubumbashi continue to operate, offering a potential exit route for those seeking to leave. However, the embassy emphasized that the trajectory of the conflict remains unpredictable.
Mounting Violence in Eastern Congo
The warning from the Belgian Embassy follows a sharp escalation in violence linked to the advance of the March 23 Movement (M23), a rebel group that has been making significant territorial gains in the eastern part of the country.
M23, which is reportedly supported by Rwanda, has recently captured major cities, including Goma, the capital of North Kivu, and Bukavu, the capital of neighboring South Kivu province.
The fall of these strategic cities has triggered fears of further destabilization, as Congolese government forces struggle to contain the insurgents.
The group, originally formed by former Congolese soldiers who mutinied in 2012, has long been active in the region, citing grievances over discrimination against Congolese Tutsis.
While it was temporarily defeated in 2013, M23 resurfaced in late 2021 and has since regained significant ground, exacerbating tensions between the DRC and Rwanda.
Diplomatic and Humanitarian Concerns
The resurgence of M23 has not only worsened the humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo but has also strained diplomatic relations in the region.
The Congolese government has repeatedly accused Rwanda of backing the rebels, a claim Kigali denies. International actors, including the United Nations and the African Union, have called for dialogue and de-escalation, though efforts to broker a lasting ceasefire have so far proven ineffective.
The ongoing conflict has displaced hundreds of thousands of people, with many fleeing toward safer regions or neighboring countries.
Humanitarian organizations warn of worsening conditions in refugee camps, where access to food, clean water, and medical care remains inadequate.
Belgium’s Response
Belgium, the former colonial ruler of the DRC, has expressed deep concern over the situation. In addition to its latest travel advisory, the Belgian government has pledged support for international diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the crisis.
Belgian officials have also reiterated calls for a peaceful solution and respect for Congo’s sovereignty.
Meanwhile, Belgian nationals in the affected provinces are urged to remain vigilant, keep in close contact with the embassy, and be prepared for potential emergency evacuations should the situation deteriorate further.
As tensions continue to mount, uncertainty looms over the future of eastern Congo, with fears that the conflict could escalate into a broader regional crisis.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
