AU Demands Immediate Halt to Hostilities in Eastern DRC
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Synopsis
The African Union's Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, has urgently called for an immediate end to hostilities in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo amid escalating conflict and humanitarian crises affecting over 400,000 displaced individuals.
Key Takeaways
- AU Chairperson calls for an immediate end to hostilities in eastern DRC.
- Concern over the safety of civilians and IDPs in conflict zones.
- Over 400,000 displaced since the start of 2025.
- UN relocates non-essential staff from Goma due to security issues.
- M23 rebels capture strategic town, Sake.
Addis Ababa, Jan 27 (NationPress) The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, has voiced serious concern regarding the alarming circumstances in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and has urged for an immediate halt to all hostilities.
In an issued statement, the pan-African body noted it is monitoring with great urgency the worsening security and humanitarian crisis in the eastern DRC. This statement arises as conflict escalates and rebellion encroaches upon critical towns within the region.
Faki emphasized the necessity for the strict adherence to the ceasefire agreed upon by the involved parties and called for an immediate cessation of all fighting. He further strongly appealed to the factions to safeguard the lives of civilians.
The Chairperson also issued an urgent plea to the global community to rally all possible aid for the communities affected by the severe collateral damage stemming from the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees revealed on Friday that over 400,000 individuals have been displaced since the start of 2025 in the eastern DRC.
Expressing significant concern about the protection and safety of civilians and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the region, the UN refugee agency indicated that ongoing clashes between opposing forces are exacerbating the protection conditions for civilians in South Kivu and North Kivu provinces, which already accommodate 4.6 million IDPs.
Previously, the United Nations announced a temporary relocation of non-essential personnel from Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, due to the deteriorating security situation.
In a press release issued on Saturday, the UN clarified that this decision affects administrative staff and those capable of performing their duties remotely, assuring that this move will not hinder its commitment to delivering humanitarian assistance and ensuring the safety of civilians in North Kivu.
This decision comes amid rising hostilities and territorial gains by the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels, who have recently taken control of Sake, a town viewed as the last stronghold for government forces before Goma.
