KDF troops under EACRF repulse armed attackers in Kibumba, Eastern DRC
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) deployed in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) under the East African Community Regional Force (EACRF) troops deployed in Kibumba thwarted a possible attack within their area of operation by a group of armed men suspected to be members of a local armed group.
The Wednesday, April 13, 2023 incident came even as the troops continued to pacify the volatile region.
“The armed men whose intent was to commit atrocities within Kibumba in Nyiragongo territory fired several rounds in the area prompting a quick reaction force to respond, successfully repulsing them and containing the security situation.” An update by KDF reads in part.
The troops have since enhanced patrols within the areas to deter any further threats, especially to the local population who have since been sensitized to continue with their normal activities.
KDF continues to protect the livelihood of citizens in areas they occupy under EACRF in the ongoing peace and stability efforts in Eastern DRC.
Yesterday, retired president Uhuru Kenyatta who is the official East Africa Community (EAC) peace process facilitator in the DRC met with the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region Huang Xia.
Xia briefed Uhuru, who is the facilitator of the EAC-led Nairobi Peace process, on his continued work on the Great Lakes focusing on the situation in the region.
He emphasized his readout from his consultations in London, Paris, Brussels and Moscow, and his continued talks with the regional Heads of State.
On his part, Uhuru stressed the need for support not only to the political track of the Nairobi Process but also to the military track.
He also requested support to reinforce a neutral force to buttress the political efforts.
Uhuru said the role of the regional force as an inter-positional army needs to be re-emphasised and accepted by all parties.
“The East African Regional Force (EAC-RF) must continue to enjoy the confidence of all parties if it is to be successful in its mandate,” he said.
He noted that the issue of the humanitarian condition of the population in the region remains of dire concern, adding that it requires greater attention and support from the international community.
He also raised concerns about the situation of the refugees and the internally displaced people concerning their security, relocation, resettlement, and rebuilding of their lives and livelihoods.
Regarding the issue, Uhuru said there was a need for heightened attention to the refugee and IDP’s track, adding that it would be the third leg of the Nairobi Process moving forward.
