DR Congo Army Successfully Defends Against M23 Advances in Walikale-Centre

The DR Congo army, aided by Wazalendo allies, successfully repelled M23 rebels from advancing on Walikale-Centre. Following military action, many residents fled to nearby villages. EAC and SADC ministers have adopted a roadmap for resolving the conflict, including measures for humanitarian access and establishing a verification mechanism, while avoiding specifics on Rwanda’s involvement.

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s army, supported by Wazalendo allies, has successfully deterred advances by M23 rebels and the Alliance Fleuve Congo towards Walikale-Centre. On March 17, the military pushed the insurgents back to Mpofi, approximately 52 kilometers away. The military action was bolstered by reinforcements from Bunia in Ituri province, preventing the rebels from seizing control of Mutakato, thereby restoring a semblance of calm, though the town remains heavily guarded and populated mainly by military personnel.

In the wake of the violence, many residents have sought refuge in nearby villages along the national highway towards Kisangani, including Losso, Mungele, Tingitingi, Lubutu Mubi, Ndjingala, Lobu, and Makana, situated in the border area between North Kivu and Maniema provinces. This displacement has heightened humanitarian concerns in the region as the locals continue to flee from conflict.

On March 17, ministers from the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) convened in Harare, Zimbabwe, adopting a roadmap aimed at addressing the conflict in Eastern DR Congo. Notably, they avoided directly naming Rwanda as a supporter of the M23 rebels. This roadmap outlines measures for both the immediate and longer-term resolution of the ongoing strife, including initiating direct military dialogue and facilitating humanitarian access.

The document called for urgent actions to be implemented within 30 days, such as establishing an unconditional ceasefire, halting hostilities, and ensuring free movement for humanitarian missions. Additionally, both the Goma and Kavumu airports would be reopened to facilitate the evacuation of civilians from conflict zones.

A verification mechanism led by SADC-EAC will be instituted to monitor the ceasefire, with existing international and regional forces expected to reinforce oversight capabilities. Furthermore, a knowledgeable evaluation team composed of military and governmental experts will assess security and humanitarian needs in the affected provinces, focusing on vital infrastructures.

Despite the absence of direct mentions, various UN reports indicate that Rwanda’s army has been operational within DR Congo, supporting M23 in territorial pursuits. The eastern region of DR Congo has endured years of instability fueled by complex dynamics, particularly following the Rwandan genocide in 1994, amidst allegations that Rwanda has aimed to exploit Congolese resources.

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s army has successfully halted M23 advances, restoring temporary peace in Walikale-Centre. Despite this, the region remains heavily militarized with ongoing fears of displacement among local populations. Collaborative efforts by regional leaders through the EAC and SADC have led to a proposed framework to facilitate dialogue and humanitarian access, although the complexities of regional dynamics, notably Rwanda’s involvement, continue to pose challenges to lasting peace.

Original Source: humanglemedia.com