Renewed Hostilities in M23 North Kivu: Massive Displacement in Lubero Centre
The recent resurgence of conflict in the North Kivu region of the Democratic Republic of Congo has sparked widespread displacement, with rebel forces from the M23 group, allegedly supported by the Rwandan army, launching a series of offensives on multiple fronts in Lubero. Reports from local sources in Alimbongo and Kitsombiro have detailed the onset of hostilities on Tuesday, February 18th, as the rebels initiated attacks on Congolese military positions in various villages, including Vutsorovya, Alimbongo, Tchulo, and Mambasa along National Route 2 towards Butembo. Throughout the day, the sounds of heavy and light arms fire have echoed through the surrounding villages, particularly in the highlands of Lubango and Kipese, as well as in Kitsombiro, a key logistical hub for the Congolese army.
Escalation of Conflict
An activist from Kitsombiro, situated 14 kilometers north of Mambasa and at the frontline of the conflict, shared that these skirmishes have forced many residents to flee their homes. Women, children, and men can be seen traversing the main road towards Butembo via Lubero Centre, while others from Lubango and Kipese, where they had sought refuge, are now also making their way towards Butembo. This sudden escalation of hostilities comes after a brief period of relative calm in the region, with the rebels previously focusing their efforts on capturing Goma and Bukavu, garnering significant attention.
Concerns and Complications
Currently, the clashes in Lubero are unfolding just forty kilometers from Lubero Centre, where the Ugandan army has established a significant base in Mulo as part of joint operations against the ADF (Allied Democratic Forces). However, the presence of the Ugandan forces has raised concerns among the local population in Grand-Nord-Kivu, as questions arise regarding the UPDF’s stance in the RDC-M23 conflict. While the Ugandan army was invited by Kinshasa to combat the common enemy ADF, there are suspicions that they may also be supporting the M23 rebels for their own interests in Kampala. The advancement of M23 rebels towards the UPDF position could potentially dispel these speculations and shed light on the true nature of the situation.
As the situation continues to unfold in North Kivu, the implications of these renewed hostilities on the civilian population remain a pressing concern. The ongoing conflict not only threatens the stability of the region but also raises broader questions about the role of external forces and their impact on local dynamics. The need for a swift resolution to the crisis is evident, as lives are disrupted, families are uprooted, and communities are left in a state of uncertainty. The coming days will prove crucial in determining the course of events in this volatile region, as the fate of those caught in the crossfire hangs in the balance.