Article: Shooting in Kitshanga: a worrying return of the M23
Since Saturday October 7, the city of Kitshanga, located in North Kivu, has been the scene of new clashes. Heavy and light weapon fire was heard, raising fears of a reoccupation of the town by M23 rebels.
According to various sources on site, there were no direct clashes, but the continuous shooting is causing great concern among the population. Some residents have already fled to the MONUSCO peacekeeper base, while others are heading towards Mwesso to seek refuge.
This escalation of violence comes after the temporary occupation of Kitshanga by fighters from local armed groups called “Wazalendo”. However, the latter quickly left the city for fear of a counterattack by the M23, which was already strengthening its positions in the surrounding area.
Clashes also continue on the Kibumba axis in Nyiragongo territory. Exchanges of fire were reported between the Wazalendo and the M23 rebels. The presence of the regional force has so far made it possible to limit the violence, but the situation remains precarious.
In addition, two shells were fired at an army position near Buhumba, in another violation of the ceasefire. The FARDC, the Congolese army, continues to commit to respecting the ceasefire, but the spokesperson warned that in the event of persistent provocations, the army is ready to do battle with the M23.
This unstable situation in the North Kivu region highlights the persistent challenges facing the Democratic Republic of Congo. The civilian population is once again trapped in clashes between armed groups, accentuating the humanitarian problems already present in the region.
It is urgent that the international community intensify its efforts to support stability and security in the DRC, in order to put an end to these recurring cycles of violence. It is also essential to work on lasting political solutions to resolve the root causes of conflicts and promote national reconciliation.
In the meantime, the population of Kitshanga and surrounding areas remains in continued fear of shootings and clashes, in the hope that the situation will calm down quickly and that peace can finally be restored to this tormented region of the DRC.