The AFC/M23 rebel movement in eastern DR Congo announced on Friday, February 13 that they had captured Kavumu airport, which is located about 25 kilometres from Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. The fall of the airport is the latest gain for the rebels, who claimed control of North Kivu provincial capital Goma on January 27, after fighting the Congolese army and its allies, who include Burundian forces and FDLR, European mercenaries, Southern African troops and the Wazalendo militia. ALSO READ: South Kivu: M23 accuses government forces of killing 10 in airstrike Fighting had been going on for days in various parts of South Kivu, including in Kelehe territory. M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka confirmed the takeover of Kavumu airport on Friday, February 14, saying it was used by government forces to launch attacks on civilians. “Kavumu Airport posed a danger to the civilian population in the liberated areas and our positions. From now on, Kavumu and its surroundings, including the airport, are under the control of the AFC/M23,” Kanyuka said in a post on X. The announcement comes just days after M23 warned on Tuesday, February 11, that they could advance toward Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, if what they called “continued attacks against civilians by the Congolese army and its allies” did not cease. ALSO READ: M23 threatens to move on Bukavu to ‘protect our people’ On Thursday, M23 accused government forces of launching airstrikes in South Kivu, claiming that a Sukhoi 25 fighter jet bombed Kalehe territory, killing 10 civilians and injuring 25 more. Kanyuka said that the attack also destroyed several homes and caused damage to Kalehe General Hospital. Strategic importance of Kavumu Airport The capture of Kavumu Airport, located approximately 25 kilometers from Bukavu, strengthens M23’s control in the region, enhancing their logistical capabilities and securing a vital access point for movement and supply routes. This development follows M23’s recent territorial advances, including the capture of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. A unilateral ceasefire declared by M23 on February 4 has failed to hold, with the rebels accusing government coalition of violating the truce and attacking both their positions and civilian areas. M23 has repeatedly emphasized that its military campaign is aimed at protecting civilians and restoring order in conflict-affected regions. The group has accused the Kinshasa government of failing to govern effectively and allowing and arming militia to destabilize eastern DR Congo.
