For several years, the North Kivu region in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been the scene of armed conflicts and incessant violence. The recent occupation of the strategic localities of Kanyabayonga, Kayina and Kirumba by the M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, only aggravates an already critical situation on the ground.
This escalation of violence endangers the lives of thousands of people living in the region of Beni-Butembo and Lubero, already weakened by years of armed conflict. Recurrent ADF attacks in the Mavivi-Mbau-Oicha-Eringeti-Kainama region, in Beni territory, have led to a massive exodus of the local population, mainly farmers forced to abandon their fields.
Road axes vital to the regional economy are regularly targeted by armed groups, disrupting commercial activities and endangering the lives of civilians. The Oicha-Luna road, the main exit route for goods towards Ituri, has become the scene of deadly ambushes perpetrated by the ADF. The attacks on the Mangina-Mandima road also sowed terror among residents of the region.
The simultaneous presence of the M23 rebels in the south and the ADF in the north of Greater North Kivu creates a disastrous situation for local populations already faced with insecurity and precariousness. The vulnerability of displaced people, host families and all those living in this region prey to armed clashes is exacerbated by this double threat.
It is imperative that the international community and the Congolese authorities take urgent measures to end this violence and protect innocent civilians trapped in this spiral of terror. Concerted actions are necessary to restore peace and stability in the region and finally allow the inhabitants of North Kivu to live in security and peace.