Category: International

During the extraordinary summit of Heads of State of the East African Community (EAC), it was decided to proceed with the cantonment phase of M23 terrorists in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Although President Félix Tshisekedi announced that the terrorists would be cantoned near the town of Kindu, capital of Maniema province, Rumangabo seems to be a viable option for the pre-cantonment of M23 and other armed groups. Angolan President Joao Lourenço has already guaranteed the demobilization of the M23, and the arrival of elements of the Angolan army in eastern DRC to continue the supervision of the process of withdrawal of the M23 is imminent. This is a step forward for the solution of this conflict through the cooperation of regional leaders.

The article highlights the importance of the National Day of Tribute to victims of conflict-related sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This event aims to pay tribute to the victims, raise public awareness and promote national unity. FONAREV, a support organization for victims, plays a key role in this commemoration. Rallies and an official ceremony took place, highlighting the importance of supporting the victims and fighting against this violence. In conclusion, this day is an opportunity to pay tribute, raise awareness and fight these serious crimes, for a more united and fairer future in the DRC.

A delegation from ECOWAS, led by Abdulsalami Abubakar and the Sultan of Sokoto, travels to Niger to begin negotiations with the putschists following the coup. Abdulsalami Abubakar, former Nigerian President, is respected for his role in Nigeria’s democratic transition in 1999, while the Sultan of Sokoto is an influential religious and political figure. The visit of this delegation marks a first since the coup and testifies to the efforts made by ECOWAS to resolve the political crisis in Niger. The presence of these prominent personalities aims to facilitate negotiations and find a compromise acceptable to all parties involved. The situation remains tense and the return to stability will require an open and constructive dialogue between political actors and civil society.

The article discusses the meeting of ECOWAS Chiefs of Staff to discuss the situation in Niger after the July 2023 coup. A possible military intervention was considered, but a peaceful solution remains preferred. Discussions focused on the establishment of an anti-terrorist force and the necessary financial and military means. However, no concrete decision has yet been taken. The economic consequences of the coup, such as sanctions and power cuts, have already started to impact the population. The final decision rests with the political leaders of ECOWAS according to the evolution of the situation.

In the Dekese region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, fires and violence continue to rage. The village of Longa was particularly affected with the destruction of 45 homes. Those responsible for these acts of violence are known and use locally manufactured weapons. The authorities are continuing the investigations and are calling for urgent assistance for the victims who find themselves homeless. Despite attempts by the outlaws to prevent it, calm has temporarily returned. It is essential that the provincial authorities intervene quickly to advance the investigations and ensure the safety of the inhabitants of the region. It is also necessary to put in place preventive measures to prevent further acts of violence. The presence of the security forces and a rapid reaction from the authorities are crucial to guarantee the security and protection of the population. It is imperative to end impunity and bring those responsible to justice. The situation in Dekese once again underlines the urgency of strengthening security and supporting actions to promote peace and stability in the region.

The United Nations (UN) has announced that Congolese and Rwandan refugees will now be able to freely express their desire to be repatriated to their countries of origin. The agreement emphasizes voluntary repatriation, allowing a return in safety and dignity, for the thousands of refugees who wish to return to their country of origin. This statement is a step forward to elucidate the security crisis between Congo and Rwanda while offering a chance for dignity to refugees.

The Beni region in the DRC was the scene of clashes between the Congolese army and ADF jihadists in late May. Although the army succeeded in neutralizing six members of the rebellion, the situation in the region remains worrying, and security continues to be tightened. Political progress has been made with the appointment of a Deputy Coordinator for the Addis Ababa Framework Agreement and measures to strengthen security in the eastern region during the extraordinary summit of the African Community from the east. However, the DRC still faces challenges in terms of justice, security and food crisis. Initiatives to promote the economy, such as the fair for young Congolese entrepreneurs, are important to support the development of the country.

Visiting Ituri, the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, sent a strong message to the armed groups who commit abuses against the population. The Governor of Ituri, Lieutenant-General Johnny Luboya N’kashama, warned the armed groups, saying that any act contrary to law and human rights would be prosecuted by national and international justice. To avoid this, they have the opportunity to dialogue, stop the violence and join the program of disarmament, demobilization, community recovery and stabilization (P-DDRCS). However, for those who do not take this opportunity, military operations will resume shortly. This statement is welcomed as a message of hope for the people of Ituri who have suffered for years of armed conflict.