**Fatshimétrie: M23 rebels occupy the locality of Alimbongo in North Kivu**
Tension has risen in the North Kivu region, as the locality of Alimbongo, located 50 km from Lubero-centre, has fallen under the control of M23 rebels. Residents witnessed violent clashes between the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) and the rebels, with the latter finally managing to push back the Congolese army and forcing it to retreat to the neighboring locality of Kitsombiro.
This resurgence of rebel activity was preceded by the occupation of the locality of Matembe, 60 kilometers from the center of Lubero, thus strengthening the presence of the M23 in the south of the territory. Faced with this alarming situation, many residents were forced to flee, abandoning their villages to seek refuge in more secure areas.
This escalation of tensions in the North Kivu region raises fears of growing instability and large-scale armed clashes. Local and national authorities must act quickly to protect civilians living in these conflict-affected regions.
The international community, for its part, is called upon to support efforts to pacificate and stabilize the region, by encouraging dialogue between the parties to the conflict and helping to find lasting solutions to end the violence.
It is crucial to recall that the return to peace and security in North Kivu is vital for the well-being and prosperity of the local populations. All parties involved must exercise restraint and work together to find peaceful and lasting solutions to the conflicts tearing the region apart.