M23 rebels have seized control of the town of Masisi in eastern DRC, raising alarms regarding a humanitarian crisis. This strategic town, rich in resources and home to about 40,000 residents, is now under threat as the rebels, backed by Rwanda, continue their offensive, impacting local stability and safety. Recent peace negotiations between the DRC and Rwanda have failed, compounding the crisis.
On Saturday, M23 rebels captured the strategic town of Masisi in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, as confirmed by Alexis Bahunga, the deputy of North Kivu province. This development has raised serious concerns regarding a looming humanitarian crisis in the region. The M23 militia, known for its support from Rwanda, has been actively seizing significant territories in eastern DRC since 2021, leading to the displacement of numerous individuals and exacerbating the existing humanitarian situation.
Masisi, which has a population of approximately 40,000, serves as the administrative center of the Masisi territory. The area is known for its rich agricultural, livestock, and mineral resources. It is located around 80 kilometers north of Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu. Bahunga expressed deep concern over the situation, emphasizing the need for the government to enact comprehensive measures to enhance the operational capabilities of the Congolese army, FARDC.
The capture of Masisi comes after scheduled talks mediated by Angola between DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame were abruptly canceled in mid-December due to disagreements regarding the peace agreement’s terms. This incident further complicates the already fragile situation in the eastern DRC, where armed groups are significantly impacting civilian life and safety.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has been intensifying since 2021, primarily driven by the activities of the M23 rebels. These rebels, characterized by their support from Rwanda, have been involved in multiple territorial conquests, resulting in widespread displacement and a humanitarian crisis in the region. Efforts to establish peace through dialogue have faced setbacks, as illustrated by the recent cancellation of talks between the DRC and Rwanda. The town of Masisi, now under M23 control, is significant due not only to its population but also due to its rich resources that could be vital for recovery and development in the region if peace can be achieved.
The recent capture of Masisi by M23 rebels marks a critical escalation in the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This event threatens to worsen the existing humanitarian crisis and highlights the urgent need for the Congolese government to bolster its military capabilities to address the situation. As international relations between the DRC and Rwanda remain strained, proactive measures will be essential to prevent further deterioration of security and humanitarian conditions in the region.
Original Source: www.france24.com
