Rebel Forces Advance Towards North Kivu Capital in DRC Campaign

Rwandan-backed M23 insurgents have once again entered North Kivu, triggering civilian displacement. The March 23 Movement reignited its military campaign in late 2021, taking control of significant portions of land.

In response, the Congolese army has attempted to resist the insurgent faction, which has nearly surrounded Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu. The rebels are now encroaching upon the town of Kanyabayonga, situated on the route to Goma.

The situation is dire, prompting residents to flee towards the north. Goma stands as a gateway to vital cities like Butembo and Beni and accommodates around 60,000 inhabitants, including tens of thousands of internally displaced persons.

Violent clashes have also erupted in the Masisi region near Sake, a mere 20 kilometers west of Goma. The DRC military, supported by the Wazalendo militia, launched an offensive a week ago in North Kivu’s Rutshuru and Masisi areas with the goal of reclaiming territory held by the M23.