Jordan Bita made a daring decision to risk his life by swimming across a turbulent river rather than face conscription by rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. With only a black bin bag containing his belongings, he used the strong currents of the Rusizi river to navigate his way from DR Congo to Burundi. This perilous journey was his last resort to escape the escalating conflict in eastern DR Congo, where M23 rebels had recently captured key cities like Goma and Bukavu.
Upon reaching safety in Burundi, Mr. Bita reflected on the dangers he faced and the desperation that led him to flee. He described how he avoided the main road and instead traversed through the forest to evade the M23 fighters who were recruiting civilians to join their cause. Burundian troops monitored the riverbank, where many Congolese families were seeking refuge, as the conflict continued to force people to flee their homes.
Despite the risks and challenges, individuals like Amani Sebakungu and Clarice Kacindi made the treacherous journey across the Rusizi river in search of safety. Many faced tragic losses and hardships along the way, highlighting the harsh realities of the conflict in the region. As hundreds sought shelter in refugee camps and makeshift settlements, the humanitarian crisis continued to unfold, with limited resources and assistance available to those in need.
The influx of refugees at border crossings like Gatumba underscored the magnitude of the displacement crisis, with women and children making up the majority of those seeking asylum. Burundian security officials enforced strict measures, barring men from crossing the border and urging them to stay behind to defend their communities from the advancing rebels. The ongoing conflict and displacement had created a sense of urgency and desperation among those fleeing, as they sought safety and stability amidst the chaos and uncertainty in the region. Desde que era joven… ha habido momentos en los que casi me ahogo mientras huía”.