Troops from the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) and the UN Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) recently demonstrated great coordination and undeniable efficiency in thwarting five attacks by armed groups in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri. These joint actions demonstrate the determination of the security forces to ensure the protection of the population and to maintain peace in the region.
In Ituri province, MONUSCO blue helmets prevented an attack by an armed group against the population after receiving an alert. A militiaman was neutralized and his weapon was confiscated. In addition, another attack by militiamen of the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (CODECO) in Djugu was foiled with the help of MONUSCO. UN forces have intensified their patrols in the area to ensure the protection of civilians.
In the province of North Kivu, a joint operation by South African peacekeepers from MONUSCO and the FARDC helped thwart an attack by the rebels of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in the town of Luna. The rebels were pushed back and fled into the bush. These actions demonstrate the cooperation and effectiveness of the security forces in the fight against armed groups in the region.
However, despite these successes, it is important to emphasize that these repeated attacks continue to disrupt the lives of civilian populations. It is essential that the Congolese people work closely with MONUSCO and FARDC troops to ensure their long-term security.
It is also important to note that MONUSCO, which has been present in the DRC for 24 years, is preparing its withdrawal from the country in agreement with the Congolese government. This withdrawal was decided because some believe that the United Nations peacekeeping mission was not sufficiently effective in its interventions. However, it is essential to continue to support peacekeeping efforts and to build the capacity of the Congolese security forces, in order to guarantee long-term security and stability in the region.
In conclusion, the joint actions of the FARDC and MONUSCO to thwart the attacks of armed groups in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri demonstrate their determination to ensure the protection of the population and to maintain peace in the region. However, it is crucial that the population works closely with the security forces to guarantee their long-term security