DRC: Heightened security likely to persist in North Kivu Province through at least late December amid resumption of clashes /update 9

Event

Heightened security is likely to persist in the North Kivu Province through at least late December amid a resumption of violence in the Masisi, Nyiragongo, and Rutshuru territories surrounding Goma. Armed clashes involving the M23 rebels and militia groups supported by the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) have been reported in recent days, notably around Kitchanga. Humanitarian sources indicate that the violence has left at least 20 civilians dead and 30 injured, and forced dozens of thousands to flee their localities since early October.

Further violence may involve M23 rebels, FARDC, regional forces, and other armed groups in the region. Officials could implement movement-restrictive measures in response to developments. Locals may stage further protests in the region, including Goma, to denounce the perceived inaction of security forces. These demonstrations are frequent as locals and DRC officials are purportedly highly critical of the United Nations Mission in DRC (MONUSCO).

Context

The M23 is seeking to pressure the government to honor a peace agreement signed in 2013, which allows the reintegration of the armed forces into society, among other issues. The M23 has repeatedly asked for direct dialogue with DRC authorities, which have so far refused, making a conflict resolution difficult in the near term. Since November 2021, the M23 rebel group has increased attacks targeting armed forces in the eastern DRC, particularly across Rutshuru Territory, and began marching toward Goma. Concerns grew, particularly in mid-November 2022, following fighting between the M23 and the FARDC near Kibumba, located about 20 km (13 miles) north of Goma.

The East Africa Community (EAC) leaders agreed in late 2022 to deploy a military force in eastern DRC; the force mandate remains active through Dec. 8. Rebels have since withdrawn from several areas and handed them over to the EAC force. DRC officials have, however, accused the EAC force of inactivity and convenience with the M23. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) also agreed in early May to deploy armed forces in the region; further details regarding the timeline or the number of troops and their mandate compared to the EAC force are unavailable. EAC and SADC forces may carry out joint operations in the near future.

Since the M23 resurgence, tensions have significantly increased between Rwanda and the DRC. DRC officials have accused Rwanda of supporting the rebels. Several cross-border incidents involving DRC and Rwanda occurred, including an exchange of fire between Congolese and Rwandan security forces at the Petite Barriere border crossing between Goma (DRC) and Gisenyi (Rwanda) in June 2022.

Advice

Consider deferring nonessential travel to conflict-affected areas in eastern DRC until the situation stabilizes. Consult local security partners on the viability of traveling in the region. Reconfirm the status of roads and border crossings before departure. Travel in convoy and during daylight hours only. Adhere to directives issued by local authorities. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions.