Masisi: FARDC and M23 Clash in Ngungu
In a violent escalation on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, clashes erupted between the M23 rebels, supported by the Rwandan army, and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) in Ngungu, located in the Ufamandu 1 groupement in the Masisi territory of North Kivu.
Details of the Conflict
According to reports, the fighting began early in the morning and was concentrated near Murambi, specifically at the Kasuku farm. The conflict has since spread to Ngungu, with ongoing exchanges of fire between loyalist forces and M23 rebels. Additional skirmishes have been reported in the vicinity of Kawere, towards Ngokwe, along the Rubaya-Ufamandu 1st axis. Voltaire Batundi, president of the territorial coordination of the civil society forces in Masisi, confirmed the intensity of the clashes and the strategic locations under attack.
FARDC’s Response
On Monday, January 13, 2025, the FARDC successfully repelled a fresh attack by the M23 at Ngungu, resulting in numerous surrenders and captures among the rebel ranks. Lieutenant-Colonel Njike Kaiko Guillaume, spokesperson for the FARDC in North Kivu, emphasized the right of the Congolese armed forces to defend themselves, protect civilians, and retaliate against aggressors, showcasing individuals who surrendered during the confrontation.
Civilian Impact and Displacement
Meanwhile, the civilian population in the Masisi territory, particularly in Ngungu, is experiencing a precarious calm amidst the ongoing conflict. Residents are fleeing towards Goma or Walikale, seeking safety and refuge from the violence that has engulfed their homes.
As the clashes intensify and the humanitarian situation deteriorates, the people of Ngungu and surrounding areas are caught in the crossfire, with their lives and livelihoods hanging in the balance. The ripple effects of this conflict extend far beyond the battlefield, impacting families, communities, and the overall stability of the region.
In times of crisis, it is crucial for the international community to rally support for those affected by conflict, providing humanitarian aid and diplomatic interventions to mitigate the suffering and ensure a pathway to peace and stability in the conflict-ridden regions. The resilience and courage of the Congolese people in the face of adversity serve as a testament to the human spirit’s enduring strength and determination to overcome even the most daunting challenges.