The M23 rebel group, allegedly backed by Rwanda, has advanced into new territory in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, sparking fresh clashes and rising food prices as residents flee.
Last Friday, the rebels seized Kanyabayonga, a strategic town in North Kivu province.
The capture of Kanyabayonga, located on high ground, is a significant gain for M23 and potentially deepens the ongoing security and humanitarian crisis.
Fighting continues around the village of Kaseghe, as Congolese troops attempt to repel the rebels.
M23 aims to advance further north to Butembo, according to spokesperson Willy Ngoma.
President Felix Tshisekedi held an urgent defense council meeting, condemning the attack on national sovereignty.
The conflict has led to the displacement of 2.7 million people within North Kivu, with many farmers unable to work their fields, causing a doubling of food prices.
The situation remains dire as the local population faces both conflict and scarcity of essential goods.
