**Save North Kivu: The Urgency of Coordinated Action**
For years, the troubled region of North Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has been the scene of incessant violence, armed conflicts and chronic instability. Recently, M23 rebels supported by Rwanda took control of strategic localities such as Kanyabayonga, Kayina and Kirumba, thus accentuating the deterioration of the security and humanitarian situation in Greater North Kivu.
This escalation of tensions creates a climate of fear and uncertainty for local populations, already severely affected by years of violence and forced displacement. Recurrent ADF attacks in the Beni region add an additional layer of tragedy, leading to the abandonment of fields and disrupting the daily lives of residents.
On the main roads connecting towns and commercial areas, rebel ambushes make travel dangerous and compromise trade essential for the survival of local populations. Attacks on vehicles and drivers sow terror and create a climate of extreme vulnerability.
The region of Beni, Butembo, and Lubero thus finds itself caught between the threats of the ADF to the north and the M23 to the south, leaving thousands of displaced people, host families and other civilians vulnerable and exposed to the atrocities of the armed groups.
In this context of acute humanitarian crisis, it is imperative that the international community intervene in a coordinated manner to protect civilians, guarantee access to humanitarian aid and promote inclusive dialogue to end the violence.
It is essential that the Congolese authorities strengthen security and civilian protection efforts, while committing to a sustainable peace process involving all stakeholders. Strengthening regional cooperation, particularly with neighboring countries involved in the conflict, is essential to resolve tensions and establish stability in the region.
It is high time to act to save North Kivu from the spiral of violence and instability, and to guarantee a peaceful and prosperous future for its inhabitants who deserve better than terror and destruction.