Bunagana Primary School closed to accommodate Congolese refugees
By Racheal Nuwahereza
Authorities in Kisoro district have suspended activities at Bunagana Primary School to secure accommodation for thousands of refugees from Democratic Republic of Congo streaming into the district.
According to reports, an estimated total of 13,000 refugees crossed into neighbouring Uganda on Monday after M23 rebels attacked Congolese army bases in the wee hours of Monday morning.
Emmanuel Mwunvaneza, the Kisoro District Education Officer says the Primary school has been sourced as the most secure location to receive and act as a reception for thousands of Congolese refugees who are still flocking in masses adding that all Primary school going children in the school have been asked to stay home until further notice.
Kivu Security Tracker (KST) said via their twitter handle that on Monday morning, M23 fighters attacked FARDC positions in Runyoni, Chanzu and Ndiza in Rutshuru territory in North Kivu.
The rebel group fighting in Eastern part of Congo Sabinyo MTS Ranges in particular was engaged by FARDC forces near Bunagana border in the of North Kivu province. The fighting continued until around 11am forcing locals to flee towards Uganda.
Elly Maate, the Kigezi region police spokesperson confirmed the development in a statement which revealed that the intensity in fighting forced Congolese citizens to flee their country for their lives.
“All security agencies however have taken charge of the situation including Uganda Police Forces, UPDF, intelligence services and UNHCR among others. The situation is under control and UNHCR has started ferrying Congolese to Nyakabande settlement camp,” said Maate.
A statement released by the Congolese army on Monday evening confirmed the attack revealing that the M23 rebels were being assisted by the Rwandan army. The area on the DRC side border of Bunagana is said to have been captured by the rebels.
