Fatshimetrie: Growing tensions in the Angolan enclave of Cabinda and repercussions in the DRC
For several weeks, the Angolan enclave of Cabinda, a small region landlocked between the two Congos, has been the scene of growing tensions. Clashes pit the Angolan Armed Forces (FAA) against the Front for the Liberation of the Cabinda Enclave. The Flec independence movement has issued a 30-day ultimatum to the Angolan government, demanding the withdrawal of Angolan troops from the region. If this request is not respected, the group threatens to intensify its armed actions. These tensions are also having repercussions in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo.
According to Congolese civil society sources, the clashes between the military and the separatists in Cabinda are having an impact in the DRC, particularly in the territory of Lukula, located in the Kongo-central province in the west of the country. Troop movements, searches and increased patrols have been reported on both sides of the border, including at the Mbaka Nkosi border post.
This situation has plunged the Congolese population into confusion, causing a wave of panic among residents. Some witnesses reported seeing Angolan soldiers crossing the border, urging local populations to take precautions. However, despite these events, the situation seems to have returned to normal on the Congolese side.
Political and military leaders in Kongo-central confirmed operations in the region in early May, but insisted that these were not joint actions. However, contacts to secure the border could be considered between the Angolan and Congolese armed forces.
For their part, representatives of the Cabinda Enclave Liberation Front condemn the inflexible position of the Angolan government which refuses any dialogue. They call on Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi to play a mediating role with his Angolan counterpart João Lourenço.
The delicate situation in the Cabinda enclave highlights the security and geopolitical issues in the region, requiring diplomatic intervention to prevent any escalation and guarantee the stability of the border area between Angola and the DRC.