Congo army claims victory as rebel-held towns are recaptured
- The Congolese army has recaptured several towns from armed groups in eastern Congo's North Kivu and South Kivu provinces.
- Despite these successes, fighting has intensified in various areas, leaving many villages still under rebel control.
- The ongoing conflict continues to exacerbate one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world, displacing millions.
Eastern Congo has been a site of ongoing conflict for decades, with numerous armed groups vying for territorial control in regions rich in minerals. In recent weeks, the Congolese army has reported significant advancements against armed groups, managing to recapture several towns that had previously been occupied. Among the recaptured towns are Ngungu, Lumbishi, Ruzirantaka, Kamatale, Bitagata, and Kabingo. These areas are crucial for local stability, especially Ngungu, which is located near the provincial capital, Goma. However, while some towns have returned to government control, many villages, including the Masisi Center, remain under rebel occupation. The intensity of the conflict and the presence of over 100 armed groups complicate the situation further. The humanitarian crisis in Eastern Congo is dire, with more than 7 million people displaced due to the ongoing violence. Of these, around 100,000 were newly displaced this year. As the Congolese army successfully pushes back against the rebels, many displaced individuals are returning to their homes, yet they face a precarious situation. Residents like Nsabimana Alexis have expressed concern for their safety, reporting that violence continues even in recaptured areas. The lack of established security means that many families are returning to meet ongoing threats. Efforts by aid organizations are increasingly strained, particularly in Masisi where many displaced individuals converge seeking refuge. French charity Doctors Without Borders, among others, are struggling to deliver essential support as the conflict hinders access to several villages. Romain Briey, MSF’s coordinator in Masisi, emphasized how the severe shortage of humanitarian responders complicates efforts to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the conflict. The most dominant group among the rebels is the M23, which is said to receive backing from Rwanda. This continues to create friction between the Congolese government and its neighbor, Rwandan authorities, who deny their involvement. The complex web of relationships and historical grievances in the region keeps the cycle of violence in Eastern Congo in a state of flux, as local populations endure hardship amid military operations and humanitarian challenges.