As M23 rebels pressed towards Bukavu, numerous villages were engulfed in violence. Reports highlight atrocities committed by various factions, particularly the Congolese military and Wazalendo militias, targeting women and children with rape. Survivor Riziki's harrowing account reveals the traumatic impact of these assaults as she fled her home seeking refuge. The destabilization led to increased vulnerability as women in M23-occupied territories continued to suffer sexual violence, with many remaining silent due to stigma. The deteriorating situation emphasizes a dire need for justice and protection for victims amidst ongoing conflict.
One of them came into my bedroom to rape me, but I resisted... Luckily, my son came to my rescue and they left after they had trashed everything.
Survivors silenced. The new occupiers did not improve much: Witnesses reported cases of rape and sexual violence in the M23-occupied cities.
Collection
[
|
...
]