Title: Clashes in Mweso: an alarming situation between self-defense groups and M23/RDF rebels
Introduction :
Since the morning of January 24, 2024, the town of Mweso, located about twenty kilometers from the city of Kitshanga, has been the scene of violent clashes between self-defense groups, called “Wazalendo”, supported by the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), and the M23/RDF rebels. The intense exchanges of fire caused panic among residents, who took refuge in places of safety such as the local hospital and the Catholic parish. The situation remains uncertain regarding effective control of the city of Mweso. These clashes occur in a context where SAMI DRC forces, alongside the FARDC, are preparing to launch an offensive against the M23/RDF.
The course of the fights:
According to testimonies collected on site, the exchanges of fire began at 7 a.m., and the detonations of heavy and light weapons were heard in the middle of the city of Mweso. The fighting has continued for several hours, without it being possible to determine with certainty who currently controls the city. Tensions between the Wazalendo and the M23/RDF are at their peak, and the situation appears unstable.
Impact on the population:
Faced with this increase in violence, many residents fled their homes and sought refuge at the Mweso general referral hospital and the Catholic parish. Fear and uncertainty reign among the population, who live in fear of fighting and the material and human damage that it could cause. In recent days, the region of Masisi and Nyiragongo has been the scene of sporadic clashes, already causing the death of a child in Mweso and other material damage.
Preparing for an offensive:
These new clashes come at a time when the forces of the Southern African Development Community (SAMI DRC) are preparing to launch, alongside the FARDC, an offensive against the M23/RDF. The executive secretary of the SADC, Elias Magosi, is currently in Goma to formalize this force and ensure its ability to act effectively on the ground.
Conclusion :
The situation in Mweso is alarming, with violent fighting raging between self-defense groups and M23/RDF rebels. Residents are trapped in this escalation of violence, seeking refuge in safe places. The preparation of an offensive by SADC forces increases tensions and uncertainty as to the outcome of these clashes. It is crucial to work for the security of civilians and find a peaceful solution to this conflict to allow the population to regain peace and stability.