On Saturday June 1, 2024 in Kanyabayonga, a strategic town located between the territories of Rutshuru and Lubero, a relative calm seemed to have set in. This follows recent clashes between the army and the M23, which caused a series of detonations of heavy and light weapons near the city. This situation caused panic among residents, pushing some to flee to other villages in Lubero territory.
Lodi Mungumwa, president of local civil society, testified to the impact of these fights on the daily lives of the inhabitants of Kanyabayonga. He reported that socio-economic activities in the city had been severely disrupted, with a climate of fear reigning among the population.
He also stressed that despite these tensions, the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) maintained control over the city, thus reassuring residents of their immediate security. The M23 rebels, for their part, remained active in the region, particularly in the locality of Bulindi, a situation which continued to cause concern among residents.
The progression of the M23 rebellion, having already conquered part of the territory of the Bwito chiefdom, particularly worries the inhabitants of Kanyabayonga. Recent clashes and the proximity of the fighting have pushed many residents to flee the city, seeking refuge in neighboring localities such as Kayna, Kirumba and Kaseghe.
The situation remains worrying, but signs of hope seem to be emerging with the return of heavy weapons and combat tanks to the front lines. Despite the current difficulties, it is essential that the population maintains hope and remains vigilant in the face of the evolving situation.
In this context of uncertainty and tension, the priority must be the safety and well-being of the residents of Kanyabayonga. It is crucial that the authorities take the necessary measures to ensure the protection of civilians and work towards a return to stability in the region.
Finally, it is essential that the international community remains mobilized and provides support to resolve this crisis and prevent any escalation of violence. The future of Kanyabayonga and its inhabitants depends on the ability of local and international actors to work together towards a peaceful and lasting resolution of this conflict.