Since January, the M23 rebel movement has taken control of Goma and Bukavu, key cities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and begun to establish long-term governance in these areas. Despite the Congolese armed forces (FARDC) comprising approximately 135,000 soldiers in 2022, plus a possible recent increase, the military has struggled against M23, which is bolstered by around 4,000 Rwandan soldiers. Corruption and low soldier morale, due to missing funds for salaries and logistics, have weakened FARDC’s capability to defend its territory. This, combined with issues of adequate training, equipment, communication, and leadership selection based on loyalty rather than competence, have further hindered FARDC’s effectiveness. Moreover, the army’s history, including a legacy of division and infiltration by Rwanda, has left a lasting impact on its potential to effectively confront threats. Despite ongoing reform efforts, the challenges are complex and evolving.

Source: https://www.dw.com/en/why-the-drc-army-is-inferior-to-the-much-smaller-m23/a-71898011?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf