The M23 expands its operational footprint beyond its 2012 rebellion.
With the capture of Bukavu on 16 February and expansion in North Kivu province, the March 23 Movement (M23) and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) are now operating across much more territory than in 2012 and 2013.
Ladd Serwat, Senior Africa Analyst at the conflict data mapping organization ACLED, explained: “The M23 and RDF’s territorial expansion in South Kivu met little resistance following clashes in Kalehe Territory, and the rebels are now continuing south after the capture of Bukavu. However, they now face the challenge of managing a multi-front offensive with numerous armed groups that wish to capitalize on the instability.
“While the M23 and RDF’s focus shifted from capturing North Kivu’s capital, Goma, to advancing on South Kivu’s capital, Bukavu, they were also fighting at the northern edge of their territory, where clashes with the Congolese military erupted last week in Lubero Territory, North Kivu province. They have since continued toward Butembo. The area of M23 operations now far exceeds that of their previous rebellion in 2012 and 2013.”
ACLED (Armed Conflict Location & Event Data) is an independent, impartial, international non-profit organization collecting data on violent conflict and protest in all countries and territories in the world.
