DRC: Clashes between M23 rebels and security forces continue in North Kivu Province as of Dec. 28 /update 5

Event

Fighting between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) and suspected members of the M23 rebel group continues in North Kivu Province as of Dec. 28. Clashes reportedly resumed Dec. 26 in the Bishusha, Tongo, Karenga, and Karuli areas. Around 50 people suspected of collaborating with ethnic Hutu Congolese militias were also reportedly kidnapped by M23 rebels in Rusekera.

This comes after forces of the East African Community (EAC) officially took back control of Kibumba, a town located about 20 km (12 miles) from Goma, Dec. 23, after the M23 rebels withdrew from the area following a joint conference between the M23, officials of the EAC regional force and some members of the Joint Verification Mechanism of the Great Lakes region, Dec. 22.

Heightened security is almost certain in the affected area in the coming weeks. Further violence is also likely. Officials could implement movement-restrictive measures. Clashes and security force responses could also impact routes in the area, including the N2 road between Goma and Rutshuru. Locals may stage further protests in the region, including Goma, to denounce the perceived inaction of security forces. Such protests have been frequent in recent weeks.

Context

Since November 2021, the M23 rebel group has increased attacks targeting armed forces in the eastern DRC, while tensions have increased between Rwanda and the DRC. In June, the M23 captured the town of Bunagana in the Rutshuru Territory and began marching toward Goma. Rebels took control of several localities along the strategic road connecting Butembo and Goma. Concerns over the potential capture of Goma have grown following fighting between the M23 rebel group and the FARDC near Kibumba, located about 20 km (13 miles) north of Goma in mid-November.

The M23 is seeking to pressure the government to honor a peace agreement signed in 2013, allowing the reintegration of the armed forces into society, among other issues. In April, the group allowed for a truce with the government; however, it did not attend peace talks launched between the government and armed groups in Kenya.

On Nov. 25, leaders of the East African Community (EAC) agreed on a cessation of hostilities in eastern DRC. Although the ceasefire includes the withdrawal of M23 rebels from occupied territories and its disarmament, the continued deployment of the EAC regional force, and the resumption of dialogue between DRC and Rwanda, M23 rebels have not signed the agreement and are therefore not bound to it. The M23 has repeatedly asked for direct dialogue with DRC which has so far refused. The EAC stated it would use military means in the event M23 rebels do not comply with the decisions. Kenya has already deployed about 900 troops in Goma, while other contingents are expected to be operational in the short term. While M23 operations may continue over the coming days, the capture of Goma appears unlikely.

Advice

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