The conflict between Wazalendo and M23 forces in the Kalembe region has tragically claimed at least 10 lives and left 16 others injured over the past five days. The violence has led to the partial displacement of the population of several localities, including Kalembe, Kalonge, Ihula, Katobo and Malemo, who have seen their inhabitants flee to Mpeti, Pinga, Rusamambu and Ikobo to escape the fighting.
Despite the precarious calm currently prevailing around Kalembe, the atmosphere remains marked by great concern in Pinga, where M23-RDF rebels have consolidated their positions in and around Kalembe, raising fears of further attacks. The violence has particularly intensified during the fighting reported at Kikohwa hill near Kalembe, which has sown a climate of fear and uncertainty among the inhabitants of the region.
As the situation remains tense and the threat of further clashes persists, it is imperative for local and international authorities to intervene quickly to put an end to this spiral of violence and protect the innocent civilian population trapped in this conflict. It is essential to establish an inclusive and constructive dialogue between the different parties involved in order to find peaceful and lasting solutions to this crisis.
In these times of unrest and suffering, it is essential that the international community remains vigilant and mobilized to prevent further human tragedies and to work towards a just and lasting peace in the Kalembe region. Concerted action and solidarity are urgently needed to put an end to this cycle of violence and to allow local populations to regain the security and stability they have so sorely suffered.