Fatshimetrie
The Democratic Republic of Congo is once again the scene of violent clashes between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the M23 rebels, supported by the Rwandan regime. These fightings, which have been raging since December 5, 2024, have focused mainly on the Kirumba-Kaseghe axis, in the Lubero territory, located in the province of North Kivu. Neighboring towns, such as Katwa, Kikuvo, Luofu and Miriki, are also affected by this spiral of violence.
During the 25th meeting of the Council of Ministers, held at the African Union City on Friday, December 6, 2024, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense, Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita, presented an update on the ongoing military operations. He commended the courage and determination of the FARDC and the Congolese security forces in the face of coordinated attacks by the RDF-M23 coalition. Congolese troops managed to maintain the initiative and repel enemy assaults on several fronts.
Despite these advances, the M23 continues to gain ground in North Kivu province, extending its influence to Walikale territory, in addition to Masisi, Rutshuru and Nyiragongo. Calls for a ceasefire have gone unheeded, raising the spectre of an even more devastating conflict. In this context, a tripartite summit is planned for 15 December 2024 in Luanda, under the auspices of Angola, to find a diplomatic solution to this crisis. Presidents Félix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame will participate to discuss the modalities for the disengagement of Rwandan troops and the neutralisation of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR).
The Congolese government remains concerned about the critical situation that persists despite the efforts made on the ground. The people of North Kivu, already tested by years of conflict, are desperately waiting for a peaceful outcome to finally find peace.
The complexity of the situation in the DR Congo underlines the urgency of concerted action by the international community to put an end to this violence and establish the conditions necessary for a genuine and lasting peace process. Only an inclusive and constructive approach will help ease tensions and work towards regional stability that will benefit all the inhabitants of this region ravaged by conflict.
While awaiting concrete results from the ongoing negotiations, there is still hope that peace and security can finally become a reality for the people of the DR Congo and the Great Lakes region.