Thirty-seven youths were killed in a stampede overnight during an army recruitment drive in a stadium in Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of&nbsp;Congo, officials said on Tuesday.

Last week, the army in the central African nation also known as&nbsp;Congo-Brazzaville, announced it was &nbsp;recruiting 1,500 people aged between 18 and 25.

Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso said 37 people had been killed in the "tragedy," with an unspecified number of other people injured.&nbsp;

"A crisis unit has been set up under the authority of the prime minister," a statement added.&nbsp;

Would-be recruits had been directed to go to the Michel d'Ornano stadium in the heart of Brazzaville.&nbsp;

According to local residents, many people were still in the stadium on Monday night when the stampede began.&nbsp;

Some people had tried to force their way through gates, with many being trampled in the scramble, residents said.&nbsp;

Details of the event remain hazy and AFP was unable to independently verify the details.&nbsp;

Thirty-seven youths were killed in a stampede overnight during an army recruitment drive in a stadium in Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of Congo, officials said on Tuesday.

Thirty-seven youths were killed in a stampede overnight during an army recruitment drive in a stadium in Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of Congo, officials said on Tuesday. Last week, the army in the central African nation also known as Congo-Brazzaville, announced it was recruiting 1,500 people aged between 18 and 25. Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso said 37 people had been killed in the "tragedy," with an unspecified number of other people injured. "A crisis unit has been set up under the authority of the prime minister," a statement added. Would-be recruits had been directed to go to the Michel d'Ornano stadium in the heart of Brazzaville. According to local residents, many people were still in the stadium on Monday night when the stampede began. Some people had tried to force their way through gates, with many being trampled in the scramble, residents said. Details of the event remain hazy and AFP was unable to independently verify the details.

Stampede kills 37 during army recruitment drive in Congo's Brazzaville

The UN mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has suspended eight of its peacemakers following reports of serious misconduct.

UN peacekeepers suspended over serious misconduct charges

DR Congo's leader Felix Tshisekedi has submitted his candidacy for a second term in office, joining a crowded list of presidential hopefuls including opposition heavyweights and a Nobel Peace Prize winner. The turbulent central African nation, a vast and impoverished country of about 100 million people is due to hold parliamentary and presidential votes on December 20.

DRC's crowded field of presidential hopefuls

An attack on a convoy carrying gold claimed lives of two Chinese nationals and two others in the Democratic Republic of Congo's lawless east, the local authorities released a statement saying on Saturday (September 2).

The ambush, on Friday (September 1), targeted a four-vehicle convoy of TSM Mining which was carrying gold from a site near the Kimbi River in the Fizi region of South Kivu province.

The attackers "stole parcels of gold which they took away into the bush," said Sammy Badibanga Kalondji, the top local official in Fizi.

The other two who were killed in the attack were a Congolese soldier and a driver.

Kalondji said that the three others who were injured were a Chinese mine employee. two locals, a soldier and a mine worker.

He further said that the assailants were locals&nbsp;who belonged to the neighbouring Maniema region.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/weakened-typhoon-saola-makes-its-way-along-southern-china-after-slamming-hong-kong-631706">Weakened Typhoon Saola makes its way along southern China after slamming Hong Kong</a>

China is a major investor in DRC, where the Asian power dominates the lucrative mineral mining industry.

South Kivu is the theatre of several attacks staged by armed groups and militias and there have been tensions and violence between locals and Chinese mining firms.

<h2>Militia attack on worshippers in Church in DR Congo kills 15</h2>

Earlier this week, at least 15 people died after militia attacked the worshippers praying in a Church in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

Militiamen, who belonged to the Co-operative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO), which is a militia group involved in various brutal ethnic killings, on Sunday attacked a fishing camp in Gobu, stated Charite Banza, president of civil society in Ituri province.

The attack that took place on Sunday lasted for more than two hours, and ended with the killing of 15 people, said Banza while speaking to the AFP, further stating that seven other people died in the same area a week earlier.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

An attack on a convoy carrying gold claimed lives of two Chinese nationals and two others in the Democratic Republic of Congo's lawless east, the local authorities released a statement saying on Saturday (September 2).

An attack on a convoy carrying gold claimed lives of two Chinese nationals and two others in the Democratic Republic of Congo's lawless east, the local authorities released a statement saying on Saturday (September 2). The ambush, on Friday (September 1), targeted a four-vehicle convoy of TSM Mining which was carrying gold from a site near the Kimbi River in the Fizi region of South Kivu province. The attackers "stole parcels of gold which they took away into the bush," said Sammy Badibanga Kalondji, the top local official in Fizi. The other two who were killed in the attack were a Congolese soldier and a driver. Kalondji said that the three others who were injured were a Chinese mine employee. two locals, a soldier and a mine worker. He further said that the assailants were locals who belonged to the neighbouring Maniema region. Also read: Weakened Typhoon Saola makes its way along southern China after slamming Hong Kong China is a major investor in DRC, where the Asian power dominates the lucrative mineral mining industry. South Kivu is the theatre of several attacks staged by armed groups and militias and there have been tensions and violence between locals and Chinese mining firms. Militia attack on worshippers in Church in DR Congo kills 15 Earlier this week, at least 15 people died after militia attacked the worshippers praying in a Church in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Militiamen, who belonged to the Co-operative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO), which is a militia group involved in various brutal ethnic killings, on Sunday attacked a fishing camp in Gobu, stated Charite Banza, president of civil society in Ituri province. The attack that took place on Sunday lasted for more than two hours, and ended with the killing of 15 people, said Banza while speaking to the AFP, further stating that seven other people died in the same area a week earlier. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Two Chinese nationals, two others killed in attack on convoy carrying gold in Democratic Republic of Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo, formerly known as Zaire, is Africa's second largest country. The central African nation, rich in valuable mineral resources, has been plagued by myriad armed groups in its east fighting for control.

Over 600 killed in Ituri province this year alone | World At War

In central Africa, as the Democratic Republic of Congo prepares to hold elections in December this year, the opposition has raised an alarm over the high-profile assassination of an opposition leader.

Leaders cry foul over high-profile murders

More than 45 civilians were killed in a militia attack on a camp for displaced people in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo's Ituri province early on Monday, the United Nation's peacekeeping mission said.

The Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO) group, one of many militias operating in the conflict-ridden east, was responsible for the killings at the "LALA" camp, the mission, known as MONUSCO, said in a statement.

CODECO claims to defend the interests of Lendu farmers, who have long been in conflict with Hema herders. Its fighters have killed hundreds of civilians in Ituri province and forced thousands to flee their homes, according to the United Nations.

Over 45 people were killed and at least 10 wounded in the attack, MONUSCO said, adding that it had liaised with provincial authorities to reinforce security in the area.

The U.N. refugee agency said armed assailants killed people, including women and children, with guns and machetes. At least 12 people were burned alive after their shelters were set on fire, it added.

Ituri army spokesman Jules Ngongo Tshikudi described the attack as an "act of sabotage" against attempts to restore peace and said investigations were underway.

Jean Richard Lenga, chief of Bahema Badjere district, said militiamen massacred 46 people with knives and firearms and burnt others in their homes in the middle of the camp.

"The whole village is in mourning now," he said, adding that the authorities were still searching for bodies.

Many people have fled to the nearby town of Bule, seeking safety, Lenga said.

Around 70,000 displaced people arrived in Bule between April 15 and May 15 due to armed violence in the surrounding areas, the U.N. humanitarian office (OCHA) said in its latest report.

Ituri hosts about 1.7 million internally displaced people in total, it said.

A civil rights group head, Charite Banza, said the attack happened a few days after a dialogue between armed groups in Ituri.

"We don't have security here, we say it every day," Banza said. The victims' bodies would be buried in a mass grave, he said.

CODECO has frequently targeted displacement camps. It killed about 60 people at another camp near Bule last year, in one of its deadliest massacres.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

More than 45 civilians were killed in a militia attack on a camp for displaced people in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo's Ituri province early on Monday, the United Nation's peacekeeping mission said.

More than 45 civilians were killed in a militia attack on a camp for displaced people in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo's Ituri province early on Monday, the United Nation's peacekeeping mission said. The Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO) group, one of many militias operating in the conflict-ridden east, was responsible for the killings at the "LALA" camp, the mission, known as MONUSCO, said in a statement. CODECO claims to defend the interests of Lendu farmers, who have long been in conflict with Hema herders. Its fighters have killed hundreds of civilians in Ituri province and forced thousands to flee their homes, according to the United Nations. Over 45 people were killed and at least 10 wounded in the attack, MONUSCO said, adding that it had liaised with provincial authorities to reinforce security in the area. The U.N. refugee agency said armed assailants killed people, including women and children, with guns and machetes. At least 12 people were burned alive after their shelters were set on fire, it added. Ituri army spokesman Jules Ngongo Tshikudi described the attack as an "act of sabotage" against attempts to restore peace and said investigations were underway. Jean Richard Lenga, chief of Bahema Badjere district, said militiamen massacred 46 people with knives and firearms and burnt others in their homes in the middle of the camp. "The whole village is in mourning now," he said, adding that the authorities were still searching for bodies. Many people have fled to the nearby town of Bule, seeking safety, Lenga said. Around 70,000 displaced people arrived in Bule between April 15 and May 15 due to armed violence in the surrounding areas, the U.N. humanitarian office (OCHA) said in its latest report. Ituri hosts about 1.7 million internally displaced people in total, it said. A civil rights group head, Charite Banza, said the attack happened a few days after a dialogue between armed groups in Ituri. "We don't have security here, we say it every day," Banza said. The victims' bodies would be buried in a mass grave, he said. CODECO has frequently targeted displacement camps. It killed about 60 people at another camp near Bule last year, in one of its deadliest massacres. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Over 45 killed as militias attack camp for displaced in Congo's Ituri

The Democratic Republic of Congo is the biggest country in sub-Saharan Africa with an area rivaling the size of continental western Europe. Political turbulence, though, is a recurrent theme in its history. A general election is due on the 20th of December when the President Felix Tshisekedi is expected to seek a second term. But political tension is on the rise with opposition complaints of delays and alleged irregularities in the voter registration drive. In addition to this, the high cost of living and heightened insecurity is turning out to be a major headache. Mohammed Saleh gets you the details

World at War: Clashes between Congolese security forces and Protesters

According to a recently completed annual assessment by IMF staff, growth in the democratic republic of the Congo (DRC) sharply rebounded from 1.7 percent in 2020 to an estimated 6.2 percent in 2021, well above the 4.5 percent rate in sub-saharan Africa. The strong recovery was driven by the country’s mining and services sector performance. Even though the country is doing great on one end, that has not trickled down to the citizens who are outraged by the rate of insecurity, living conditions, and cases of sexual abuse in the east.

Outraged citizens protest

Felix Tshisekedi, President of the mineral-rich Democratic Republic of Congo, is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping to review and sign key deals. Tshisekedi will visit China from May 24 to 29.

The meeting will pave the way for the two countries to formally overhaul and seal a $6 billion infrastructure-for-minerals deal with Chinese investors. The visit was announced by the Chinese foreign ministry on Monday.

Reuters quoted Congo government spokesman Patrick Muyaya who said that Congo President's visit will strengthen cooperation between the countries.

"We want to build new relations with China, on sound foundations," Muyaya said.

Tshisekedi directed his government on May 19 to go ahead with talks on the deal with the Chinese side. This was after the government and other stakeholders "consolidated their position," according to a government statement.

He informed Cabinet members that a task force looking at the deal had submitted its conclusions, enabling discussions with Chinese partners to commence in the coming days.

<h2>Rebalancing the deal</h2>

Congo is trying to 'rebalance' the USD 6 billion infrastructure-for-minerals deal. It was signed by a previous administration. Congo now says that the terms of the deal were unfavourable.

The government said its Chinese counterparts have not met their end of the bargain which provided for infrastructure investments in exchange for copper and cobalt.

Congo is the world's largest producer of battery material cobalt.

During the Congo president's China visit, the two presidents will hold talks after signing the co-operation document, said the Chinese foreign ministry.

"The Democratic Republic of Congo is an important country in Africa, and the friendship between China and the Democratic Republic of Congo has a long history," Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a regular press briefing.

"Both sides have always supported each other on issues related to each other's core interests and major concerns. In recent years, political mutual trust between China and the Democratic Republic of Congo has been continuously deepening, and practical cooperation has yielded fruitful results," Mao added.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Felix Tshisekedi, President of the mineral-rich Democratic Republic of Congo, is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping to review and sign key deals. Tshisekedi will visit China from May 24 to 29.

Felix Tshisekedi, President of the mineral-rich Democratic Republic of Congo, is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping to review and sign key deals. Tshisekedi will visit China from May 24 to 29. The meeting will pave the way for the two countries to formally overhaul and seal a $6 billion infrastructure-for-minerals deal with Chinese investors. The visit was announced by the Chinese foreign ministry on Monday. Reuters quoted Congo government spokesman Patrick Muyaya who said that Congo President's visit will strengthen cooperation between the countries. "We want to build new relations with China, on sound foundations," Muyaya said. Tshisekedi directed his government on May 19 to go ahead with talks on the deal with the Chinese side. This was after the government and other stakeholders "consolidated their position," according to a government statement. He informed Cabinet members that a task force looking at the deal had submitted its conclusions, enabling discussions with Chinese partners to commence in the coming days. Rebalancing the deal Congo is trying to 'rebalance' the USD 6 billion infrastructure-for-minerals deal. It was signed by a previous administration. Congo now says that the terms of the deal were unfavourable. The government said its Chinese counterparts have not met their end of the bargain which provided for infrastructure investments in exchange for copper and cobalt. Congo is the world's largest producer of battery material cobalt. During the Congo president's China visit, the two presidents will hold talks after signing the co-operation document, said the Chinese foreign ministry. "The Democratic Republic of Congo is an important country in Africa, and the friendship between China and the Democratic Republic of Congo has a long history," Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a regular press briefing. "Both sides have always supported each other on issues related to each other's core interests and major concerns. In recent years, political mutual trust between China and the Democratic Republic of Congo has been continuously deepening, and practical cooperation has yielded fruitful results," Mao added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China may sign minerals deal with Congo this week

While residents and rescuers continued looking for survivors in the Democratic Republic Of Congo, aid workers found more bodies among the muddy devastation and wounded residents succumbed to their injuries in an under-equipped local clinic. Hem Kaur Saroya brings you the report...

Floods, landslides kill over 400 in Eastern Congo

The death toll from flooding in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo continues to rise. Aid workers found more bodies among the muddy devastation and wounded residents succumbed to their injuries in an under-equipped local clinic. Rohit Wellington Rajan brings you the report.

More than 400 dead in flooding in Democratic Republic of Congo

The death toll from flash floods and landslides in the Democratic Republic of Congo has risen to over 400 with several people missing, making it one of the deadliest natural disasters in the country’s recent history. Eric Njoka brings you the report

Flooding, landslides kill over 400 in Eastern Congo

The death toll from the floods that devastated two villages in Congo last week has climbed to 401, news agency Reuters reported on Monday (May 8), citing a provincial governor, as more bodies were recovered. The villages of Bushushu and Nyamukubi in Kalehe territory, South Kivu province were flooded last Thursday (May 4) after days of torrential rain triggered landslides and caused rivers to break their banks.

Speaking to Reuters, South Kivu governor Theo Ngwabidje Kasi said on Monday that the toll stood at 401, but did not provide any further details. Reuters reported that the government sent a delegation to Kalehe and declared Monday a day of national mourning with flags lowered at half-mast "in memory of the lost compatriots."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Civil society in South Kivu, let us demand a dignified burial for our compatriots who died in Kalehe: exhume the bodies, identify them by DNA, bury them individually and not in a mass grave. The ministerial delegation from Kin must ensure that this is done. <a href="https://t.co/z8R97YUET2">https://t.co/z8R97YUET2</a>
— Denis Mukwege (@DenisMukwege) <a href="https://twitter.com/DenisMukwege/status/1655478105073504258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said on Sunday that 270 people died due to floods with over 300 still unaccounted for. The OCHA added that around 3,000 families lost their homes.&nbsp;

More than 8,800 people have been affected by the floods, the Congolese Red Cross said.&nbsp;

On Monday Congolese Nobel laureate Denis Mukwege called on the government to ensure victims were given a dignified burial. "Bury them individually and not in a mass grave," Mukwege tweeted, adding, the ministerial delegation from Kin must ensure that this is done.

The last incident of a similar scale in Congo occurred in October 2014, when heavy rainfall destroyed over 700 homes. The latest floods came just days after floods killed at least 131 people and destroyed more than 5,000 homes in neighbouring Rwanda.

On Saturday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condoled the loss of lives due to the "catastrophic floods" in both countries. During a visit to Burundi, Guterres described the floods as yet another illustration of accelerating climate change and its disastrous impact on countries that have done nothing to contribute to global warming.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The death toll from the floods that devastated two villages in Congo last week has climbed to 401, news agency Reuters reported on Monday (May 8), citing a provincial governor, as more bodies were recovered.

The death toll from the floods that devastated two villages in Congo last week has climbed to 401, news agency Reuters reported on Monday (May 8), citing a provincial governor, as more bodies were recovered. The villages of Bushushu and Nyamukubi in Kalehe territory, South Kivu province were flooded last Thursday (May 4) after days of torrential rain triggered landslides and caused rivers to break their banks. Speaking to Reuters, South Kivu governor Theo Ngwabidje Kasi said on Monday that the toll stood at 401, but did not provide any further details. Reuters reported that the government sent a delegation to Kalehe and declared Monday a day of national mourning with flags lowered at half-mast "in memory of the lost compatriots." Civil society in South Kivu, let us demand a dignified burial for our compatriots who died in Kalehe: exhume the bodies, identify them by DNA, bury them individually and not in a mass grave. The ministerial delegation from Kin must ensure that this is done. https://t.co/z8R97YUET2 — Denis Mukwege (@DenisMukwege) May 8, 2023 × Meanwhile, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said on Sunday that 270 people died due to floods with over 300 still unaccounted for. The OCHA added that around 3,000 families lost their homes. More than 8,800 people have been affected by the floods, the Congolese Red Cross said. On Monday Congolese Nobel laureate Denis Mukwege called on the government to ensure victims were given a dignified burial. "Bury them individually and not in a mass grave," Mukwege tweeted, adding, the ministerial delegation from Kin must ensure that this is done. The last incident of a similar scale in Congo occurred in October 2014, when heavy rainfall destroyed over 700 homes. The latest floods came just days after floods killed at least 131 people and destroyed more than 5,000 homes in neighbouring Rwanda. On Saturday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condoled the loss of lives due to the "catastrophic floods" in both countries. During a visit to Burundi, Guterres described the floods as yet another illustration of accelerating climate change and its disastrous impact on countries that have done nothing to contribute to global warming. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Congo floods: Death toll climbs to 401; over 8,800 people affected

At least 176 people die in flash floods in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Over 100 people still remain missing. Eric Njoka brings you the report.

Corpses pile up after devastating floods in DR Congo

Authorities recover 203 bodies in Kalehe, the worst-hit region in eastern DRC's South Kivu province. The toll from floods and landslides in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo [DRC], has risen to 203 people dead as more bodies were recovered, an administrative official said.

Death toll from DRC floods tops 200

At least 176 people have died after flash floods in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo’s South Kivu province, said local authorities, on Friday (May 5). This also comes days after flooding and landslides triggered by heavy rains killed more than 100 people in neighbouring Rwanda.

What is happening in Congo?

Flash floods triggered by heavy rains have devastated the Congo’s South Kivu province and even caused a river to overflow on Thursday which has since led to significant damage and loss of life in the villages of Bushushu and Nyamukubi, said the provincial government, in a statement.&nbsp;

South Kivu Governor Théo Ngwabidje Kasi put the death toll at 176 and said that other people were still missing, while a local civil society member, Kasole Martin, said 227 bodies had been found. “People are sleeping out in the open, schools and hospitals have been swept away,” said Martin, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

Reportedly, as the weather had somewhat cleared on Friday, flattened houses and corrugated iron roofs jutting out from beneath thick layers of mud were seen, while haggard-looking survivors stood outside a wooden shed in which Red Cross workers placed bodies on top of each other.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Archimede Karhebwa, the assistant administrator of South Kivu’s Kalehe territory, which was also hit by the floods, told AFP that about 100 people had died, adding that several villages in Kalehe, which lies west of Lake Kivu, were submerged when rivers burst their banks after heavy rains.&nbsp;

Speaking to AFP, the official also said how the floods “surprised vendors and their clients in the markets” as they swept away hundreds of houses. The heavy rains, as per officials, began late Thursday afternoon before the “river carried away villagers”.&nbsp;

An elected official from Kalehe territory, Vital Muhini, speaking on local radio said that the floods have caused “devastating human and material damage.” According to Karhebwa, deforestation in the area has contributed to the flooding problem as the rivers have burst their banks and caused disastrous flooding on four previous occasions.&nbsp;

He added, “We are sending out an SOS to people of good will and for urgent humanitarian aid,” as quoted by AFP. However, floods and landslides are not uncommon occurrences in South Kivu.

The recent floods come nearly a decade after heavy rain destroyed more than 700 homes and more than 130 people were reported missing at the time, reported Reuters, citing United Nations. Additionally, just a month after at least 21 people died and several were reported missing in a landslide in North Kivu province.

What happened in Rwanda?

Flooding and landslides triggered by heavy rains, as of Thursday, have killed more than 130 people and destroyed more than 5,000 homes, said a government spokesperson.&nbsp;

“So far, we have recorded 130 deaths. Additionally, there are 77 injuries, with 36 of those individuals currently in the hospital. We also have five people missing,” said deputy government spokesperson, Alain Mukuralinda, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

He added that floods had also completely destroyed over 5,100 houses and affected an additional 2,500, and the people who were living in those homes needed to now be relocated. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Édouard Ngirente, during his visit to the affected areas in western Rwanda said that the death toll could rise as some bodies were still buried in the mud.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

At least 176 people have died after flash floods in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo’s South Kivu province, said local authorities, on Friday (May 5). This also comes days after flooding and landslides triggered by heavy rains killed more than 100 people in neighbouring Rwanda.

At least 176 people have died after flash floods in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo’s South Kivu province, said local authorities, on Friday (May 5). This also comes days after flooding and landslides triggered by heavy rains killed more than 100 people in neighbouring Rwanda. What is happening in Congo? Flash floods triggered by heavy rains have devastated the Congo’s South Kivu province and even caused a river to overflow on Thursday which has since led to significant damage and loss of life in the villages of Bushushu and Nyamukubi, said the provincial government, in a statement. South Kivu Governor Théo Ngwabidje Kasi put the death toll at 176 and said that other people were still missing, while a local civil society member, Kasole Martin, said 227 bodies had been found. “People are sleeping out in the open, schools and hospitals have been swept away,” said Martin, as quoted by Reuters. Reportedly, as the weather had somewhat cleared on Friday, flattened houses and corrugated iron roofs jutting out from beneath thick layers of mud were seen, while haggard-looking survivors stood outside a wooden shed in which Red Cross workers placed bodies on top of each other. Meanwhile, Archimede Karhebwa, the assistant administrator of South Kivu’s Kalehe territory, which was also hit by the floods, told AFP that about 100 people had died, adding that several villages in Kalehe, which lies west of Lake Kivu, were submerged when rivers burst their banks after heavy rains. Speaking to AFP, the official also said how the floods “surprised vendors and their clients in the markets” as they swept away hundreds of houses. The heavy rains, as per officials, began late Thursday afternoon before the “river carried away villagers”. An elected official from Kalehe territory, Vital Muhini, speaking on local radio said that the floods have caused “devastating human and material damage.” According to Karhebwa, deforestation in the area has contributed to the flooding problem as the rivers have burst their banks and caused disastrous flooding on four previous occasions. He added, “We are sending out an SOS to people of good will and for urgent humanitarian aid,” as quoted by AFP. However, floods and landslides are not uncommon occurrences in South Kivu. The recent floods come nearly a decade after heavy rain destroyed more than 700 homes and more than 130 people were reported missing at the time, reported Reuters, citing United Nations. Additionally, just a month after at least 21 people died and several were reported missing in a landslide in North Kivu province. What happened in Rwanda? Flooding and landslides triggered by heavy rains, as of Thursday, have killed more than 130 people and destroyed more than 5,000 homes, said a government spokesperson. “So far, we have recorded 130 deaths. Additionally, there are 77 injuries, with 36 of those individuals currently in the hospital. We also have five people missing,” said deputy government spokesperson, Alain Mukuralinda, as quoted by Reuters. He added that floods had also completely destroyed over 5,100 houses and affected an additional 2,500, and the people who were living in those homes needed to now be relocated. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Édouard Ngirente, during his visit to the affected areas in western Rwanda said that the death toll could rise as some bodies were still buried in the mud. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nearly 200 people killed, several missing after flash floods in eastern Congo

Nearly a month after the M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo, declared that they have left parts of north kivu province, ghosts of the violence are still present in Kishishe, a town that was ravaged by the insurgency. We revisit the area where many are returning albeit still fearful of a resurgence of war.

Kishishe awakens after massacre | World Of Africa

Jean-Pierre Bemba, a former rebel leader in Congo jailed by the International Criminal Court (ICC), was appointed as the country's deputy prime minister and defence minister in a cabinet reshuffle. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Friday (March 24), Bemba's appointment was announced on Thursday on state television by President Felix Tshisekedi’s spokesperson.&nbsp;

Bemba was Congo's vice president from 2003 and 2006 and was later imprisoned by the ICC for over 10 years, accused of murder, rape and pillaging committed by his Movement for the Liberation of Congo forces in the neighbouring country of Central African Republic.

He was acquitted by the ICC in 2018. His return to politics comes nine months ahead of the presidential election in Congo. According to analysts, Bemba's comeback was likely decided to help Tshisekedi win votes in Congo’s northeast, where Bemba’s rebel group was popular in the 1990s and 2000s, the Associated Press reported.&nbsp;

Benjamin Hunter, Africa analyst for Verisk Maplecroft,&nbsp;a risk assessment firm, said, “This is clearly a pre-election reshuffle and Jean-Pierre Bemba has been appointed to bring his supporters in line to rally behind the president ahead of the race."

Hunter added that despite Bemba's previous imprisonment by the ICC, he is a political heavyweight with patronage networks and a contact book to help Tshisekedi’s election campaign.&nbsp;

Conflict in eastern Congo has been simmering for decades, and President Felix Tshisekedi came to office in 2019 promising to stop the country's instability and violence, but it only increased.&nbsp;

Apart from Bemba's appointment, other new government postings in Thursday's cabinet reshuffle include Tshisekedi’s former chief of staff, Vital Kamerhe, who was named the minister of the economy, the report said. And Antipas Mbusa Nyamwisi, a former warlord in Ituri province was appointed minister of state for national integration.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Jean-Pierre Bemba, a former rebel leader in Congo jailed by the International Criminal Court (ICC), was appointed as the country's deputy prime minister and defence minister in a cabinet reshuffle.

Jean-Pierre Bemba, a former rebel leader in Congo jailed by the International Criminal Court (ICC), was appointed as the country's deputy prime minister and defence minister in a cabinet reshuffle. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Friday (March 24), Bemba's appointment was announced on Thursday on state television by President Felix Tshisekedi’s spokesperson. Bemba was Congo's vice president from 2003 and 2006 and was later imprisoned by the ICC for over 10 years, accused of murder, rape and pillaging committed by his Movement for the Liberation of Congo forces in the neighbouring country of Central African Republic. He was acquitted by the ICC in 2018. His return to politics comes nine months ahead of the presidential election in Congo. According to analysts, Bemba's comeback was likely decided to help Tshisekedi win votes in Congo’s northeast, where Bemba’s rebel group was popular in the 1990s and 2000s, the Associated Press reported. Benjamin Hunter, Africa analyst for Verisk Maplecroft, a risk assessment firm, said, “This is clearly a pre-election reshuffle and Jean-Pierre Bemba has been appointed to bring his supporters in line to rally behind the president ahead of the race." Hunter added that despite Bemba's previous imprisonment by the ICC, he is a political heavyweight with patronage networks and a contact book to help Tshisekedi’s election campaign. Conflict in eastern Congo has been simmering for decades, and President Felix Tshisekedi came to office in 2019 promising to stop the country's instability and violence, but it only increased. Apart from Bemba's appointment, other new government postings in Thursday's cabinet reshuffle include Tshisekedi’s former chief of staff, Vital Kamerhe, who was named the minister of the economy, the report said. And Antipas Mbusa Nyamwisi, a former warlord in Ituri province was appointed minister of state for national integration. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Congo's former rebel leader Jean-Pierre Bemba appointed as country's deputy PM, defence minister

United nations security council delegation is currently on a three-day visit to the democratic republic of Congo. The visit aims to assess the security and humanitarian situation in the province of North Kivu where rebels have been making territorial gains. Recent clashes erupted between the government troops and m23 rebels near the village of Murambi which lies to the west of Goma city.

Clashes in Congo continue as UN Tours country

At least 36 people were killed during an overnight attack on a village in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Watch the video to know more.

At least 36 people killed by extremists in eastern Congo

Congolese are fleeing their homes and towns as apparent gains by M23 rebel group eastern Congo sparked a fresh exodus of people towards the provincial capital Goma.

Congolese flee towards Goma as rebels advance

East African regional leaders have renewed their call for an immediate ceasefire by all sides in the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, that pits the country’s military against a rebel group that the government has accused Rwanda of supporting. The leaders meeting in Burundi, was the latest diplomatic effort to try to end the conflict, which has displaced at least 520,000 people since march 2022 in north Kivu.

World of Africa: The unending DRC conflict

Rwandan forces on Tuesday (January 24) shot at a fighter jet from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and accused them of violating its airspace, reported Reuters. In turn, the Congolese government denying this accusation called the move an “act of war”, in a statement. According to local media reports from Rwanda, the incident took place at 5:03 pm (local time). 
 
Several videos of the incident have been shared on social media as well as by the local media which show a projectile shooting towards a military plane which exploded near the jet and continued to fly, the authenticity could not be immediately verified. Meanwhile, Congo has denied Rwanda’s accusation of violating its airspace and said Rwandan shots “were directed towards a Congolese aircraft flying within Congolese territory”.&nbsp;

In a statement, Congo also confirmed that the plane later landed in the provincial capital Goma and did not suffer any major damage. Furthermore, the Rwandan government also said the country’s forces had fired at a Sukhoi-25 which violated the airspace in Rubavu and prompted them to take “defensive measures”.&nbsp;

The Rwandan government spokesperson said the country asks the DRC to “stop this aggression”, as per Reuters. While&nbsp;the Congolese government has described the move by Rwanda&nbsp;as a “deliberate act of aggression that amounts to an act of war” which was aimed at undermining the peace agreement to end an offensive by the M23 rebel group.&nbsp;

This comes amid strained relations between the two countries as Congo, the United Nations experts and some Western countries have previously accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebel group which seized several towns and villages in eastern Congo. Rwanda has since denied these accusations.&nbsp;

In November, regional leaders brokered an agreement according to which the rebel group was asked to withdraw from the seized position by January last week to end the conflict. Last week, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, said that the rebels have completely withdrawn. A similar incident took place back in December when Rwanda accused Congo of&nbsp;briefly violating&nbsp;its airspace.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Rwandan forces on Tuesday (January 24) shot at a fighter jet from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and accused them of violating its airspace, reported Reuters.

Rwandan forces on Tuesday (January 24) shot at a fighter jet from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and accused them of violating its airspace, reported Reuters. In turn, the Congolese government denying this accusation called the move an “act of war”, in a statement. According to local media reports from Rwanda, the incident took place at 5:03 pm (local time). Several videos of the incident have been shared on social media as well as by the local media which show a projectile shooting towards a military plane which exploded near the jet and continued to fly, the authenticity could not be immediately verified. Meanwhile, Congo has denied Rwanda’s accusation of violating its airspace and said Rwandan shots “were directed towards a Congolese aircraft flying within Congolese territory”. In a statement, Congo also confirmed that the plane later landed in the provincial capital Goma and did not suffer any major damage. Furthermore, the Rwandan government also said the country’s forces had fired at a Sukhoi-25 which violated the airspace in Rubavu and prompted them to take “defensive measures”. The Rwandan government spokesperson said the country asks the DRC to “stop this aggression”, as per Reuters. While the Congolese government has described the move by Rwanda as a “deliberate act of aggression that amounts to an act of war” which was aimed at undermining the peace agreement to end an offensive by the M23 rebel group. This comes amid strained relations between the two countries as Congo, the United Nations experts and some Western countries have previously accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebel group which seized several towns and villages in eastern Congo. Rwanda has since denied these accusations. In November, regional leaders brokered an agreement according to which the rebel group was asked to withdraw from the seized position by January last week to end the conflict. Last week, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, said that the rebels have completely withdrawn. A similar incident took place back in December when Rwanda accused Congo of briefly violating its airspace. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Act of war’: Rwanda shoots at DR Congo’s fighter jet for allegedly violating its airspace

The United Nations has said that nearly 50 bodies were found in mass graves in the eastern region of Democratic Republic of Congo. The discovery was made by peacekeepers while patrolling the troubled Ituri province.

UN: Nearly 50 bodies found in Congo mass grave linked to suspected attacks by Codeco militants

The heavy international pressure to lay down arms, the M23 rebel group who have seized swathes of territory in the east of Democratic Republic of Congo, began handing over positions as a part of the so-called 'good will gesture' in a ceasefire agreement.

Congo: M23 retreats from occupied territory, says 'handing Kibumba to military a goodwill gesture

At least 120 people have been killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo capital Kinshasa after heavy rains unleashed floods and caused landslides, a government document seen by Reuters showed on Tuesday.

Entire neighbourhoods were flooded with muddy water, and houses and roads ripped apart by sinkholes, including the N1 highway that connects Kinshasa to the chief sea port of Matadi.

The prime minister's office said in a statement that the N1 could be closed for 3-4 days.

The death toll was compiled by the General Management of Migration, a part of the interior ministry.

The toll may rise. Health minister Jean-Jacques Mbungani Mbanda told Reuters the ministry had counted 141 dead but that the number needed to be cross-checked with other departments.

Images posted on Twitter by Congo's government spokesman Patrick Muyaya showed a major road that appeared to have subsided into a deep chasm, with crowds staring at the damage.

"On the National Road 1 there is a big hole. Only pedestrians can pass. We do not understand how the water cut the road," said local resident Gabriel Mbikolo.

Once a fishing village on the banks of the Congo river, Kinshasa has grown into one of Africa's largest megacities with a population of around 15 million.

Poorly regulated rapid urbanization has made the city increasingly vulnerable to flash floods after intense rains, which have become more frequent due to climate change.

At least 39 people died in Kinshasa in 2019 when torrential rain flooded low-lying districts and some buildings and roads collapsed.

In addition to damaged infrastructure, each day of flooding costs households a combined $1.2 million due to the large-scale transport disruption, according to a 2020 World Bank paper.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

At least 120 people have been killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo capital Kinshasa after heavy rains unleashed floods and caused landslides, a government document seen by Reuters showed on Tuesday.

At least 120 people have been killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo capital Kinshasa after heavy rains unleashed floods and caused landslides, a government document seen by Reuters showed on Tuesday. Entire neighbourhoods were flooded with muddy water, and houses and roads ripped apart by sinkholes, including the N1 highway that connects Kinshasa to the chief sea port of Matadi. The prime minister's office said in a statement that the N1 could be closed for 3-4 days. The death toll was compiled by the General Management of Migration, a part of the interior ministry. The toll may rise. Health minister Jean-Jacques Mbungani Mbanda told Reuters the ministry had counted 141 dead but that the number needed to be cross-checked with other departments. Images posted on Twitter by Congo's government spokesman Patrick Muyaya showed a major road that appeared to have subsided into a deep chasm, with crowds staring at the damage. "On the National Road 1 there is a big hole. Only pedestrians can pass. We do not understand how the water cut the road," said local resident Gabriel Mbikolo. Once a fishing village on the banks of the Congo river, Kinshasa has grown into one of Africa's largest megacities with a population of around 15 million. Poorly regulated rapid urbanization has made the city increasingly vulnerable to flash floods after intense rains, which have become more frequent due to climate change. At least 39 people died in Kinshasa in 2019 when torrential rain flooded low-lying districts and some buildings and roads collapsed. In addition to damaged infrastructure, each day of flooding costs households a combined $1.2 million due to the large-scale transport disruption, according to a 2020 World Bank paper. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Floods kill at least 120 in Congolese capital

Democratic Republic of Congo’s industry minister Julien Paluku has blamed the rebel group, M23, for killing 300 people in eastern North Kivu province last week, reports AFP news agency.

The government earlier pegged the number at 100 but increased the toll count as the days went by.

“Every community has been able to record the people who died from units in Kishishe and its environs,” Paluku, who was the governor of North Kivu province from 2007 to 2019, told the reporters on Monday.

He informed that the updated numbers were collated with the help of civil society and an “organisation grouping all the communities” in the region.

“One community alone has more than 105 deaths. We are looking at around 300 deaths of people known to be regular inhabitants of Kishishe, who have nothing to do with FDLR [Hutus from the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda] and no connection with the mai-mai,” a community-based militia group, he added.

He said that all the fatalities were civilians and at least 17 were believed to be children.

The insurgent group, however, has disputed the massacre accusations and said that eight civilians were killed in the village on November 29. It claimed that the civilians died due to “stray bullets”.

The M23, also known as the March 23 movement, is a Congolese Tutsi rebel military group composed of ethnic&nbsp;Tutsi. It is based in eastern areas of the DRC, mainly in North Kivu province.

After remaining dormant for years, it took up arms again in November last year and seized the town of Bunagana on the border with Uganda in June. In October, it gain went into offensive mode after a brief period of lull.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Democratic Republic of Congo’s industry minister Julien Paluku has blamed the rebel group, M23, for killing 300 people in eastern North Kivu province last week, reports AFP news agency.

Democratic Republic of Congo’s industry minister Julien Paluku has blamed the rebel group, M23, for killing 300 people in eastern North Kivu province last week, reports AFP news agency. The government earlier pegged the number at 100 but increased the toll count as the days went by. “Every community has been able to record the people who died from units in Kishishe and its environs,” Paluku, who was the governor of North Kivu province from 2007 to 2019, told the reporters on Monday. He informed that the updated numbers were collated with the help of civil society and an “organisation grouping all the communities” in the region. “One community alone has more than 105 deaths. We are looking at around 300 deaths of people known to be regular inhabitants of Kishishe, who have nothing to do with FDLR [Hutus from the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda] and no connection with the mai-mai,” a community-based militia group, he added. He said that all the fatalities were civilians and at least 17 were believed to be children. The insurgent group, however, has disputed the massacre accusations and said that eight civilians were killed in the village on November 29. It claimed that the civilians died due to “stray bullets”. The M23, also known as the March 23 movement, is a Congolese Tutsi rebel military group composed of ethnic Tutsi. It is based in eastern areas of the DRC, mainly in North Kivu province. After remaining dormant for years, it took up arms again in November last year and seized the town of Bunagana on the border with Uganda in June. In October, it gain went into offensive mode after a brief period of lull. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

M23 rebel group responsible for massacre of 300 civilians in DR Congo, says govt

M23, the rebel group of Democratic Republic of Congo said on Friday that it wants to talk directly with the government after Congo's president and other African leaders signed a ceasefire deal aimed at stopping attacks by the militia.&nbsp;This week, the leaders of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and Angola gathered in Luanda to discuss a solution to the crisis in eastern Congo, which has compelled thousands of people to escape their homes, and signed a ceasefire agreement to end the militia's attacks.

They committed to enforcing a cease-fire beginning on Friday, and stated that if the M23 did not leave its positions, regional soldiers would act against it.

However, the M23 was not involved in the negotiations and learned about the remark on social media.

WATCH | African leaders agree on ‘immediate ceasefire’ in violence-torn eastern DRC

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/african-leaders-agree-on-immediate-ceasefire-in-violence-torn-eastern-drc-537022/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“We thank the regional leaders for their efforts to find a peaceful solution to the current conflict,” said M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka.

“Give us direct negotiations with the government to resolve the root causes of conflict that are producing all these wars here,” he said. M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa also issued a statement to the same effect.

The M23, which the government of Congo considers to be a terrorist organisation, was excluded from negotiations. Foreign minister Christophe Lutundula responded, "It won't happen," when asked about this, during a press conference on Thursday. "In the name of the administration and the Republic's President, I can reassure you."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malawis-vice-president-saulos-chilima-arrested-over-corruption-allegations-537600">Malawi’s Vice President Saulos Chilima arrested over corruption allegations</a>

The M23 claimed that a unilateral ceasefire had already been announced in April and that attacks are being started by the Congolese army. The M23 has subsequently taken control of numerous cities in eastern Congo, however combat has persisted since then.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

M23, the rebel group of Democratic Republic of Congo said on Friday that it wants to talk directly with the government after Congo's president and other African leaders signed a ceasefire deal aimed at stopping attacks by the militia.

M23, the rebel group of Democratic Republic of Congo said on Friday that it wants to talk directly with the government after Congo's president and other African leaders signed a ceasefire deal aimed at stopping attacks by the militia. This week, the leaders of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and Angola gathered in Luanda to discuss a solution to the crisis in eastern Congo, which has compelled thousands of people to escape their homes, and signed a ceasefire agreement to end the militia's attacks. They committed to enforcing a cease-fire beginning on Friday, and stated that if the M23 did not leave its positions, regional soldiers would act against it. However, the M23 was not involved in the negotiations and learned about the remark on social media. WATCH | African leaders agree on ‘immediate ceasefire’ in violence-torn eastern DRC “We thank the regional leaders for their efforts to find a peaceful solution to the current conflict,” said M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka. “Give us direct negotiations with the government to resolve the root causes of conflict that are producing all these wars here,” he said. M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa also issued a statement to the same effect. The M23, which the government of Congo considers to be a terrorist organisation, was excluded from negotiations. Foreign minister Christophe Lutundula responded, "It won't happen," when asked about this, during a press conference on Thursday. "In the name of the administration and the Republic's President, I can reassure you." Also read | Malawi’s Vice President Saulos Chilima arrested over corruption allegations The M23 claimed that a unilateral ceasefire had already been announced in April and that attacks are being started by the Congolese army. The M23 has subsequently taken control of numerous cities in eastern Congo, however combat has persisted since then. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Congo: M23 rebels demand dialogue with government after African states declare ceasefire

Thousands have displaced in the volatile Eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo as fighting between Army and M23 rebels moves close to the key city of Goma.

Fears of humanitarian crisis in DRC, thousands flee as fighting between Army, M23 rebels resumes

The Democratic Republic of Congo have bombed rebel targets in the East of the country, further escalating the country's fight against the M23 group. The DRC deployed two Sukhoi-25 jets after the M23 captured a series of settlements - a long highway leading to Goma, Congo.

Congo: Fighter jets bomb north Kivu, DRC deploys two Sukhoi-25 jets against rebels

congo

Congo, News on Congo, stories on Congo, articles on Congo, Congo stories at Wion, Congo news, Congo latest news