• Congo's military has regained several towns from rebel control amidst ongoing violence.
• Key areas like Ngungu and others in Masisi territory near Goma have seen significant conflict.
• Despite military successes, the humanitarian crisis continues, leaving millions displaced.
• Local residents express fear and uncertainty as clashes between forces and rebels persist.
• The M23 group, accused of receiving support from Rwanda, continues to challenge government forces.

GOMA, Congo (AP) — The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) have successfully recaptured several towns from rebel groups, including important locations in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. This military advancement comes amid escalating violence from the M23 rebel group, which remains active in the region, leading to fears and frustration among local residents. As reported by AP News and Al Jazeera, these towns had been under rebel occupation for months, with Ngungu being a pivotal strategic town.

Guillaume Ndjike Kaiko, an army spokesman in North Kivu, announced the recovery of towns such as Lumbishi, Ruzirantaka, Kamatale, Bitagata, and Kabingo, attributing the successes to collaborative military operations. Despite these gains, persistent clashes mean that some Masisi villages, including the region's center, remain firmly in rebel hands. “They [the rebels] have seen their adventure come to a halt by the FARDC,” Kaiko asserted on Sunday, yet concerns linger as ongoing fighting undermines efforts to stabilize the region.

The ongoing struggles in eastern Congo are rooted in decades of conflict, with an estimated 100+ armed groups competing for territorial control in this mineral-rich area. The M23 group continues to be the most dominant rebel presence amid alleged support from Rwanda, a claim that Rwanda denies. The violence has precipitated one of the most severe humanitarian crises globally, displacing approximately 7 million individuals and contributing to overall instability in the country.

Local residents returning to towns such as Ngungu express mixed emotions, facing continued violence even after reclaiming their homes. “We are in Ngungu, but we continue to suffer because the security is not well established,” stated Nsabimana Alexis, a resident. Reports of fatalities and renewed artillery strikes only deepen their apprehension. “We hope we will have a safe place for our family away from here,” said another local, highlighting the dire need for security and humanitarian aid.

The situation remains dire, as ongoing clashes have curtailed access to essential aid, with organizations like Doctors Without Borders (MSF) and World Vision struggling to meet the needs of those affected. "We are doing our best to respond to this situation, but the severe lack of humanitarian responders in the area is making things difficult," remarked Romain Briey, a coordinator for MSF in Masisi. Thus, while the Congolese army reports tactical victories, the relentless cycle of violence continues to impede peace and stability in this troubled region.