**Fatshimetrie – In-depth analysis of the clashes between the FARDC and the M23 rebels in Lubero, North Kivu**
Since the early morning hours of this Wednesday, December 4, 2024, the inhabitants of Lubero, in the North Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, have witnessed violent clashes between the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) and the M23 rebels. This conflict situation has once again resulted in the disruption of the daily lives of the local population and a growing climate of insecurity in the region.
The fighting intensified mainly on the axes of Luofu, Kikuvo and Miombwe, thus rekindling the tension that has reigned for several days in the area. The FARDC, supported by groups of young patriots called “wazalendo”, found themselves on the front line to defend the population and counter the rebel attacks. As the fighting continued, the population was forced to flee the combat zones, seeking refuge in safer locations.
The armed conflict that has been raging for three days now in the south of Lubero has caused population movements and led to widespread fear among residents. The noise of weapons, both heavy and light, has seriously disrupted the daily lives of civilians, preventing them from leaving the risk areas and exposing them to constant danger.
Faced with this escalation of violence, the humanitarian landscape is becoming increasingly worrying, with families forced to leave their homes and public infrastructure damaged by the fighting. Local authorities, supported by law enforcement, are trying to maintain a semblance of order and protection for the civilian population, while continuing military operations to contain the rebels.
Lieutenant Reagen Mbuyi, spokesperson for Front-Nord military operations, insists on respecting the ceasefire established in the Luanda agreements, while highlighting the fierce resistance of the FARDC in the face of M23 attacks. Despite the absence of an official assessment of the clashes, it is clear that the situation remains tense and uncertain, with civilians caught between the belligerents.
The issue of armed conflicts in the North Kivu region once again raises the question of the security of civilian populations and the political issues underlying these clashes. Allegations of support for the M23 by neighboring countries, particularly Rwanda, fuel tensions and further complicate the peaceful resolution of the conflict.
In conclusion, the clashes between the FARDC and the M23 rebels in Lubero, North Kivu, illustrate the fragility of the security situation in the region and the need for concerted action to protect civilians, ensure respect for human rights and work towards lasting peace.The international community, humanitarian organizations and local actors must redouble their efforts to end this cycle of violence and pave the way for a more peaceful future for the Congolese people.