Tensions persist in the territories of Masisi and Rutshuru in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the armed group M23 faces local militias loyal to the government. The situation further worsened recently with an ambush carried out by a local armed group against a convoy of the Ugandan contingent of the East African Community Regional Force (EACRF).
The incident took place in pouring rain on the road linking Rutshuru-center to Bunagana, an area believed to be under the control of the Ugandan contingent. It is not yet known with certainty who orchestrated this ambush, but some residents speak of the presence of fighters known as Wazalendo. If confirmed, it could change the dynamics of the conflict in the region. The Mai-Mai militiamen, as well as part of the population, demonstrate their hostility towards the regional force of the EAC, in particular the Ugandan contingent, accusing them of collaborating with the M23.
This attack was considered a provocation by the regional force, which opened an investigation to determine responsibility. For its part, the Kinshasa government announced that the mandate of the EAC regional force would not be renewed due to the lack of positive results.
Armed violence in these territories has led to the displacement of more than 145,000 people to more than 33 locations since October 1, according to local humanitarian sources.
This situation once again highlights the fragility of peace in the DRC and the urgency of finding lasting solutions to end the violence and restore security in the region. The presence of multiple armed groups and their rivalry with peacekeeping forces creates a vicious circle of violence and population displacement.
It is essential that the international community continues to support efforts to resolve the conflict in the DRC, by intensifying operations to disarm armed groups and strengthening the capacities of the Congolese security forces. Only a global and coordinated approach can stabilize the situation and guarantee long-term peace in this troubled region of Central Africa.