**M23 Rebels: A worrying escalation of violence in Walikale**
Since the first light of this Saturday, October 26, 2024, the Walikale region has been the scene of violent clashes between M23 rebels and government forces, supported by the Rwandan army. This increase in the intensity of the fighting has caused a wave of population displacements and plunged the region into total insecurity.
Recent developments in the conflict have seen VDP/Wazalendo fighters, particularly those from the NDC, retreat towards Mpeti after losing control of Kalembe to the rebels. However, a surprise attack from the rear caught the routed forces off guard, thus increasing the pressure on the front.
The situation is particularly critical on the Minjenje bridge, a strategic point about ten kilometers from Kalembe. The VDP/Wazalendo are desperately clinging to this position, facing a determined offensive by the rebels who are trying to consolidate their advances.
In this emergency context, civil society in Walikale is calling on the government to strengthen its support for the troops engaged on the ground. Displaced people, fleeing the fighting and violence, are converging towards areas considered safer, such as Mpeti or Pinga-Centre, in an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.
In Pinga-Centre, normal activity is severely disrupted by the tense security situation. Neighbouring localities, such as Bishimo, Katanga and Nkasa, are also feeling the effects of this wave of violence that is shaking the region.
This escalation of tensions in Walikale raises serious concerns about the stability of the region and the security of local populations. The authorities must intervene quickly and effectively to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe and bring peace to these conflict-torn regions.
In sum, the situation in Walikale is a tragic reflection of the security challenges facing the Democratic Republic of Congo, highlighting the need for urgent and coordinated action to end the violence in the region.