DRC: M23 rebels continue their advance in South Kivu, take control of strategic town of Luvungi

Reports indicate that M23 rebels, with backing from the Rwandan army, continue their advance in the South Kivu region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. On Sat, the rebels seized control of the strategic town of Luvungi, situated near the border with Burundi, as well as several adjacent villages.

The intensification of the conflict has resulted in the displacement of thousands of residents.

A representative from the Congolese Armed Forces reported to the media that government troops had strategically withdrawn from Luvungi to prevent significant damage and ensure civilian safety.

According to a military statement, artillery shells fired from within Rwandan territory have impacted communities in the Ruzizi plain, leading to civilian casualties and the destruction of infrastructure such as schools, health centers, and homes.

There are also independent reports suggesting that the rebels are advancing towards the town of Uvira.

Amidst the escalation, the leaders of the DRC and Rwanda recently convened with the US President in Washington to reaffirm their commitment to a peace plan previously signed in June. The agreement, praised by the US administration, was facilitated through collaboration with partners such as the African Union and Qatar. Additionally, a separate peace agreement has been established between the DRC and the M23.

The US government is reportedly interested in gaining access to the region’s crucial mineral reserves.

During the signing ceremony, the presidents of the DRC and Rwanda maintained minimal interaction, which lasted approximately 50 minutes.

United Nations experts have indicated that an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan government forces are present in eastern Congo, collaborating with the M23. While Rwanda refutes these claims of support, it asserts that any actions taken are solely for the defense of its territory.

Based on reporting by Africanews.