A Congolese man named Jordan Bita made a perilous decision to cross the Rusizi River from the Democratic Republic of Congo into Burundi, choosing the danger of the river over being conscripted by the rebels, M23. Despite the presence of strong currents, Bita was able to navigate the treacherous river, carrying a black bin bag with his belongings. This crossing marked the final leg of his desperate journey to escape the escalating conflict in eastern DR Congo, where the M23 rebels have captured major cities. Burundian troops were seen monitoring the riverbank where thousands of refugees, primarily women and children, have sought refuge. Among the refugees was also a woman named Amani Sebakungu, exhausted but relieved to have crossed safely. The crossing is fraught with risks, as at least 20 people have drowned in the attempt, and many more incidents likely remain unreported. Many of the fleeing individuals bring along much-needed food supplies and face the dilemma of men being barred from crossing by Congolese officials who want them to stay and defend their cities.

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c93k9476694o