M23, a Rwandan-backed rebel group in the DR Congo, has expanded their footprint past Goma and has now taken over the city of Bukavu. For all practical purposes, they now control the entire Kivu province. Director Nanza reports that most of the police and military in the area fled before M23 came to town, so M23 rolled into town virtually unopposed. Many businesses and banks closed for several weeks, making it very difficult to get food and provisions. A bomb exploded near our school, and killed 57 people, wounding 100. Thankfully, none of our staff or students were wounded. Despite the banks being closed, Nanza was able to receive the funds I sent for February’s school needs. Praise God for that! Although some schools and businesses are struggling to operate in the city, most parents are afraid to let their children out, so our school has had to stay closed until things settle down. We don’t know how M23 will rule the province, or how long they’ll stay.
Although Uvira is about 5 hours south of Bukavu, the citizens there are feeling the efects of M23’s spread. Director Pililo reports that the local police and militia have fled for their lives. Unfortunately, they’re resorting to violence and theft as they make their way out of the city to hide in the countryside. With all the mayhem and violence, the construction of the new school has come to a standstill, and students are staying home. We expect things will settle down quicker in Uvira than in Bukavu because it’s a smaller city and further away from M23’s presence.
Pray for peace and safety in the Kivu province.
