Tensions Escalate Between Kagame and Ramaphosa: Possible War Confrontation Imminent.

Tensions Escalate Between Kagame and Ramaphosa: Possible War Confrontation Imminent.

by Yeyetunde at January 31, 2025

The news as it trends.

As the situation unfolds, the argument between Rwanda and South Africa stems from the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

South Africa has accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels, who are involved in the conflict.

This accusation has led to increased tensions between Rwanda and South Africa.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame has rejected these accusations and criticized South African President Cyril Ramaphosa for distorting facts about the conflict.

South Africa has deployed troops in the DRC as part of a peacekeeping mission under the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

However, Kagame has labeled this mission as a “belligerent force” rather than a peacekeeping effort.

The recent deaths of 13 South African soldiers in the DRC have further escalated the situation, leading to political pressure on the South African government to justify its military intervention.

The exchange of accusations and criticisms between Kagame and Ramaphosa has led to a diplomatic spat, with Kagame warning that Rwanda is prepared to confront South Africa if necessary.

Historically, there have been several conflicts between African nations, such as the Eritrean-Ethiopian War (1998-2000) and the Uganda-Tanzania War (1978-1979).

These conflicts have often been driven by territorial disputes, political differences, and ethnic tensions.

The M23 rebels, also known as the March 23 Movement, are a Congolese Tutsi-led, Rwandan-backed rebel military group operating primarily in the North Kivu province of the DRC.

The group was formed in 2012 by former members of the National Congress for the Defence of the People (CNDP).

They accuse the government of not living up to the peace deal signed on March 23, 2009, which was supposed to integrate Congolese Tutsis into the army and administration.

The M23 rebels vow to defend Tutsi interests, particularly against ethnic Hutu militias such as the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR).

Control over resource-rich areas, including the coltan-mining region of Rubaya, provides significant financial benefits to the group.

Critics warn that if the two African leaders let the war of words continue, it could lead to war and significant loss of life and regional instability, among other repercussions.

The current situation with President Paul Kagame’s statements about being prepared for a confrontation with South Africa is a reflection of the ongoing complexities and challenges in the region.

While it is uncertain if this will escalate into a full-scale conflict, it highlights the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions and promote peace between the two nations.

Image @ Paul Kagame on X.  Source: US News & World Report.  

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