The Congolese army has reclaimed several towns from armed groups in eastern Congo, including critical areas in North and South Kivu provinces, despite ongoing rebel advances and intensified fighting. This conflict has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and facing extreme challenges in accessing aid and maintaining safety.
The Congolese army reports that it has successfully retaken several towns previously held by armed groups in the eastern regions of North Kivu and South Kivu. Despite these gains, violence persists, with rebels advancing in other regions, contributing to the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The conflict, fueled by over a hundred militia groups competing for territory, has resulted in 7 million people being displaced, including 100,000 individuals who sought refuge this year alone.
Key towns reclaimed include Ngungu, which is vital to the Masisi territory close to Goma, the provincial capital. While the military announces progress, many villages in Masisi remain under the control of insurgents. “They have seen their adventure come to a halt by the FARDC (Congolese security forces),” commented Guillaume Ndjike Kaiko, an army spokesperson. Other towns reported as liberated are Lumbishi, Ruzirantaka, Kamatale, Bitagata, and Kabingo.
Residents returning to Ngungu expressed apprehension about their safety even amid celebrations of their recovery from displacement. Nsabimana Alexis, a local, noted, “We are in Ngungu … but we continue to suffer because the security is not well established.” The ongoing skirmishes hinder access to many villages, complicating humanitarian efforts. The M23 rebel group, the most prominent in the region, is allegedly supported by Rwanda, a claim that Rwanda vehemently denies.
Humanitarian organizations report that local camps and facilities are overwhelmed with the influx of displaced individuals. Romain Briey, a coordinator with Doctors Without Borders, stressed the dire situation, stating, “We are doing our best to respond to this situation. But the severe lack of humanitarian responders in the area is making things difficult.”
Eastern Congo, particularly the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu, has been embroiled in conflict for decades due to the presence of over 100 armed groups vying for control and resources in the mineral-rich territory bordering Rwanda. The ongoing violence has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, resulting in millions displaced and in desperate need of aid. The area is characterized by persistent instability, as control of territory often shifts between government forces and rebel factions such as the M23 group.
While the Congolese army has made significant progress in reclaiming towns from rebels, the situation remains precarious, with continued fighting contributing to the humanitarian crisis. The challenges faced by returning residents and overburdened aid facilities underscore the complexity of the situation in eastern Congo, where peace and stability remain elusive amidst ongoing conflict.
Original Source: apnews.com
