DRC Rebel Groups: Who Are They and Where Do They Come From?
The eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has long been plagued by armed groups. Here are the major ones that have shaped the country’s conflicts:
1️⃣ AFDL – Alliance led by Laurent-Désiré Kabila, backed by Rwanda and Uganda. They toppled Mobutu in 1997.
2️⃣ ADF – Originating in Uganda, later linked to ISIS by the UN. Responsible for deadly attacks in Beni.
3️⃣ FDLR – Hutu rebels from Rwanda after the 1994 genocide, based in Congo, accused of atrocities.
4️⃣ RCD – Formed in 1998 with Rwanda’s support, controlled Goma during the Second Congo War.
5️⃣ CNDP – Created by Laurent Nkunda in 2006, supported by Rwanda. Later evolved into M23.
6️⃣ M23 – Formed in 2012, claiming Kinshasa violated the March 23, 2009 peace deal. A Tutsi-dominated group with strong ties to Kigali.
7️⃣ Twurwaneho & Ngomino – Banyamulenge self-defense groups from South Kivu, accused of Rwanda-backed operations.
8️⃣ FRF – Forces Républicaines Fédéralistes, another Banyamulenge group in South Kivu.
9️⃣ Red Tabara – A Burundian rebel movement reportedly supported by Rwanda, operating partly in Congo.
🔟 Androïde – A small militia from Kalehe, linked to Banyamulenge groups.
⚖️ In summary:
- These groups vary in origin – some local, others foreign.
- Rwanda has been linked to RCD, CNDP, M23, Ngomino, Twurwaneho.
- Uganda is tied to ADF and militias in Ituri.
- Burundi is tied to Red Tabara.
- Overall, 30+ armed groups remain active in eastern Congo.
✍️ Author: Mangwa
📖 Read more: MecaMediaAfrica.com
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