Fatshimetrie investigated the resumption of offensives by the M23 rebel movement in the North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, sparing no effort to conquer this region rich in mineral resources and strategically important for the country. On July 5, 2024, the Struggle for Change (LUCHA), a civil society organization, published a list detailing the villages and cities that had fallen into the hands of the rebels, supported by Rwanda.
This alarming list reveals that no fewer than 87 areas, including villages and towns, are now under M23 control in the territories of Masisi, Rutshuru, Nyragongo and Lubero, exacerbating widespread insecurity in the region. These figures highlight the extent of the destabilization caused by these repeated attacks, plunging local populations into great precariousness and forcing many displaced people to flee their homes to escape the violence.
Welcome Matumo, a committed member of LUCHA, stressed the importance of gathering information from various sources to document these critical situations. This mobilization of civil society aims to raise awareness among the Congolese population and demand concrete actions from the authorities to put an end to this spiral of violence and instability.
The observation is distressing: the inhabitants of these regions live in fear, uncertainty and misery, abandoned by a failing State which struggles to ensure their security and well-being. The disruption caused by these armed conflicts has created unbearable living conditions for hundreds of thousands of people forced to live in displacement camps, constantly wandering in search of temporary refuge.
Faced with this alarming situation, LUCHA calls for a general mobilization to support the Armed Forces of the DRC in their efforts to protect the population and restore peace. It is urgent that the Congolese state redouble its efforts to strengthen its military capabilities and eliminate all forms of corruption within its ranks to guarantee effective action on the ground.
The recent two-week truce between the Congolese army and the M23 rebels, welcomed by the United States, offers a glimmer of hope for a temporary easing of tensions and the possibility of helping vulnerable populations. However, this pause must be used to lay the foundations for a lasting solution and, above all, to work for long-term stability and security in this conflict-ridden region.
Finally, it is imperative that the international community provide strong and continued support for stabilization efforts in the DRC, putting pressure on all parties concerned to respect the truce agreements and engage in constructive dialogue with a view to achieving lasting peace and peace. inclusive for all residents of the region. The current situation requires concerted and determined action from all actors involved to end the suffering of civilian populations and pave the way for a better future for Congo.
Samyr LUKOMBO