Heavy Fighting Between FARDC and M23 Displaces Thousands in Nord-Kivu

Intense fighting has erupted between the Congolese army (FARDC) and the M23 rebel group around Kanyabayonga in Lubero, Nord-Kivu, resulting in significant displacement of the local population. Both sides are employing heavy artillery, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.

The clashes, which began recently, have seen both sides blaming each other for the attacks on civilians. The M23 accused the FARDC and its allies of killing civilians, while the FARDC claimed that M23 rebels were dropping bombs on populated areas. The conflict has led to the deaths of 10 civilians and injured several others.

A South African soldier was killed, and 13 others were injured during the fighting, according to the South African National Defense Force (SANDF). The regional force, composed of troops from South Africa, Tanzania, and Malawi, has been deployed in North Kivu since the beginning of the year to combat the M23 rebels.

The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) has clarified its role in the region, denying allegations of supporting armed groups. According to MONUSCO's military spokesperson, the mission does not support either M23 or ADF, who are considered common enemies.

Why this matters: The ongoing conflict in Nord-Kivu has significant implications for regional stability and humanitarian efforts. If left unchecked, it could lead to further displacement, violence, and instability in the region, affecting millions of people.

The ongoing conflict has caused mass displacement, with families fleeing to nearby towns such as Kayna, Kirumba, Kaseghe, and Butembo. Kanyabayonga, a strategic location giving access to the territory of Lubero and Grand Kivu, is currently sheltering nearly 35,000 internally displaced persons.

The conflict has significantly impacted the local population, with reports of bombs falling on civilian areas. An unnamed source lamented, "Bombs fell on the population. We already have counted 10 civilians killed, and several injured. It's truly a deplorable situation."

The FARDC and its allies have reorganized to counter the M23's advance in Kanyabayonga. Colonel Guillaume Ndjike Kaiko, spokesperson for the military governor of North Kivu, stated, "We have pushed back M23 elements in several of its positions surrounding the town of Sake in Masisi territory. We are going to drive out the enemy outside the national territory."

The humanitarian situation in Nord-Kivu continues to deteriorate, with nearly seven million people displaced as a result of ongoing conflicts. The region remains a focal point of instability, posing significant challenges for both local authorities and international peacekeeping forces.

The recent fighting around Kanyabayonga highlights the persistent insecurity in eastern DRC, which has plagued the region for decades. The ongoing conflict means the local population bears the brunt of the violence and displacement, highlighting the urgent need for a lasting resolution.

Key Takeaways

• Intense fighting erupts between Congolese army (FARDC) and M23 rebels in Nord-Kivu.
• 10 civilians killed, several injured, and 35,000 displaced in recent clashes.
• South African soldier killed, 13 others injured in fighting.
• MONUSCO denies supporting armed groups, including M23 and ADF.
• Ongoing conflict worsens humanitarian crisis, with 7 million displaced in Nord-Kivu.