Seven months after the withdrawal of peacekeepers, the security situation continues to deteriorate in the
eastern province of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In South Kivu, the M23 rebels are advancing. In an interview with UN Info, the spokesperson for the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the country (MONUSCO), Ndeye Khady Lo, expressed her deep concern.
“We are deeply concerned by the deterioration of the security situation in eastern DRC,” she said, noting “this is the first time that the conflict has spread” to this province, on the border with Rwanda.
In recent days, the M23 has made significant advances against the Congolese army in North Kivu province. The rebel group also took control of Minova, a strategic town in South Kivu, at a key crossroads on the highway to Goma, one of the country’s main cities, on Tuesday.
Since the withdrawal of MONUSCO peacekeepers from this province in June 2024, UN forces have no longer been present in the area.
Since 18 January, the M23 rebels have continued to advance, causing human losses and the displacement of more than 250,000 people.
In addition to Minova, the rebels have taken control of the port of Kasunyu, a strategic axis for river transport on Lake Kivu and mining.
The situation remains tense in North Kivu, where violent clashes between the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC), the M23 and other armed groups persist, particularly near Sake.
MONUSCO has reinforced its defensive positions in the region, particularly around Goma and Sake, as part of Operation Springbok launched in November 2023, in order to prevent a further advance by the M23.
“The defensive positions are under pressure,” said Ndeye Khady Lo.
Fighting in Bweremana on Tuesday left at least 10 people dead, and thousands fled to Kalehe, Goma and Rusayo.
Mortar fire also endangered populations sheltering in sites for internally displaced persons.
Despite MONUSCO’s withdrawal from South Kivu, UN humanitarian agencies remain present, but they no longer have the mission’s logistical support, the spokesperson said.
She called on the M23 to lay down its arms and respect the ceasefire, in force since 4 August, while calling
on all parties to renew their commitment to the Luanda process, which aims to maintain dialogue between the DRC and Rwanda.
ODL/te/fss/as/APA