DRC: Extension of humanitarian ceasefire
Fronts of the conflict between the M23 rebellion and government forces in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remained relatively calm on Thursday, following Washington’s announcement of a 15-day extension of the “humanitarian ceasefire”, according to local sources.
“A fragile calm is being observed”, said Lieutenant Reagan Mbuyi, spokesperson for the army on the northern front of the conflict that has been ongoing for two and a half years in North Kivu province. This region has witnessed violent clashes between the Congolese army and M23 rebels, resulting in thousands of displaced people and a severe humanitarian crisis.
On the southern front, in the Masisi territory, a few shots were reported by residents interviewed by AFP, but no major fighting between the two sides was reported. This relative calm allows humanitarian organizations to continue their relief operations and provide essential aid to populations affected by the conflict.
The extension of the humanitarian ceasefire, announced by the United States, aims to create a window of calm to facilitate humanitarian access to the most affected areas and provide an opportunity for peace negotiations. Although this ceasefire offers crucial respite, the situation remains fragile and uncertain.
The conflict between the M23, a rebel group primarily composed of Congolese Tutsis, and the DRC government forces began in 2012, but hostilities have resumed with renewed intensity since 2021. North Kivu, rich in natural resources, is a strategic region, further complicating peace efforts.
Congolese authorities and international organizations are calling for vigilance and sincere engagement from all parties to maintain the calm and continue peace efforts. Lieutenant Mbuyi urged local populations to report any suspicious movements and support security forces in their efforts to stabilize the region.
