News in the DRC: The pooling of forces to fight against the M23
The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains worrying, particularly in the North Kivu region in the face of threats from the rebel group M23. In a press conference in Kinshasa, the Special Representative of the Secretary General of the United Nations in the DRC, Bintou Keita, addressed the issue of the pooling of forces to fight against this threat.
According to Ms. Keita, it is important to note that the current situation cannot be directly compared to that of 2012-2013. At the time, the resolution of the M23 crisis was achieved through a combination of military operations, diplomatic and political pressure, and sanctions. However, new approaches must be considered to deal with the current situation.
The Special Representative also mentioned the statement by the Force Commander of MONUSCO in New York, which calls for the reinforcement of the deterrence capacities of the forces of the mission in the DRC. This support to the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) requires additional resources which have been requested since June of the previous year.
However, it is important to stress that quickly mobilizing the necessary resources in the global context can be difficult. Ms. Keita mentioned that MONUSCO has lost ten helicopters since last year, which is a limiting factor in joint operations with the FARDC.
The pooling of forces is therefore becoming a priority to ensure security and stability in the North Kivu region. The Congolese authorities and MONUSCO are working together to strengthen their efforts and find effective solutions to fight against armed groups, in particular the M23.
The situation in the DRC remains complex and requires a multidimensional approach to guarantee peace and security in the region. The pooling of forces and international cooperation are essential elements in this fight against armed groups and to establish lasting stability in the DRC.
It is therefore crucial that all actors involved work hand in hand, sharing their resources and knowledge, to face this common threat and promote peace and development in the DRC