This Tuesday, the locality of Kalembe in the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo remains the scene of a complex and changing situation, following the intervention of the Congolese Armed Forces in support of the self-defense militias which forced the M23 rebels to retreat. The town had been temporarily occupied by the M23 following fierce fighting with the coalition of local militias. However, local sources confirm that Kalembe, as well as the neighboring locality of Ihula, are now under the control of the government coalition.
The leader of the Kisimba groupement in the Walikale territory, Mwami Kabaki Alimasi, declared: “Since yesterday, there has been a turnaround in the situation, the Congolese armed forces have regained control of Kalembe and Ihula. However, the M23 rebels remain nearby, a few kilometers from Kalembe, leaving uncertainty about what will happen next. Currently, the situation is calm, but the presence of rebels remains a potential threat.”
Sporadic gunfire was reported this morning in Kalembe, indicating that the situation remains volatile. Army reinforcements from Pinga remain on alert, while Guidon Shimirayi’s NDC-R militiamen are visible on site, according to information gathered.
Kalembe, located between the territories of Masisi, Rutshuru and Walikale, is of strategic importance due to its geographical position. Indeed, it is a crossroads towards Walikale, which opens the way to the provinces of Maniema and Tshopo. In addition, the region is rich in mineral resources such as gold, cassiterite and coltan, thus attracting the attention of armed groups.
This alarming situation highlights once again the fragility of the region and the need for concerted action to ensure the security of local populations and protect the country’s natural resources. In these uncertain times, it is essential to remain vigilant and promote peace and stability in the region to ensure a better future for all people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.