The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda on Wednesday (July 6) agreed to a "de-escalation process". The nations agreed following weeks of rising tensions over rebel fighting in eastern DRC.

However, the mediator in the talks, Angolan President Joao Lourenco went further announcing a "ceasefire". But he gave no details.

The DRC has accused Rwanda of backing M23 rebels repeatedly. This accusation has been denied by the central African country.

"I am pleased to announce that we have had positive results, in our view, in that we have agreed on a ceasefire, among other measures," Lourenco said in remarks at the end of the mini-summit attended by Rwanda's Paul Kagame and Congo's Felix Tshisekedi in the Angolan capital Luanda.

Tshisekedi's office said a "roadmap" had been established towards normalising diplomatic ties, including through ending hostilities involving the M23 militia in eastern DRC.

The announcements came after day-long talks which the Rwandan state broadcaster reported had "concluded with an agreed upon roadmap to deescalate hostilities".

But the Rwanda Broadcasting Agency stressed that it was agreed that the issue of M23 "be dealt with domestically within the framework of the Nairobi process."

A mostly Congolese Tutsi rebel group, the M23 -- or "March 23 Movement" -- first leapt to prominence when it briefly captured the eastern Congolese city of Goma in 2012 before it was driven out in a joint UN-Congolese offensive.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda on Wednesday (July 6) agreed to a "de-escalation process". The nations agreed following weeks of rising tensions over rebel fighting in eastern DRC.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda on Wednesday (July 6) agreed to a "de-escalation process". The nations agreed following weeks of rising tensions over rebel fighting in eastern DRC. However, the mediator in the talks, Angolan President Joao Lourenco went further announcing a "ceasefire". But he gave no details. The DRC has accused Rwanda of backing M23 rebels repeatedly. This accusation has been denied by the central African country. "I am pleased to announce that we have had positive results, in our view, in that we have agreed on a ceasefire, among other measures," Lourenco said in remarks at the end of the mini-summit attended by Rwanda's Paul Kagame and Congo's Felix Tshisekedi in the Angolan capital Luanda. Tshisekedi's office said a "roadmap" had been established towards normalising diplomatic ties, including through ending hostilities involving the M23 militia in eastern DRC. The announcements came after day-long talks which the Rwandan state broadcaster reported had "concluded with an agreed upon roadmap to deescalate hostilities". But the Rwanda Broadcasting Agency stressed that it was agreed that the issue of M23 "be dealt with domestically within the framework of the Nairobi process." A mostly Congolese Tutsi rebel group, the M23 -- or "March 23 Movement" -- first leapt to prominence when it briefly captured the eastern Congolese city of Goma in 2012 before it was driven out in a joint UN-Congolese offensive. (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 ×

DR Congo and Rwanda agree on a 'de-escalation process'

The&nbsp;leaders&nbsp;of seven nations comprising the&nbsp;East&nbsp;African Community bloc will&nbsp;meet&nbsp;Monday&nbsp;to&nbsp;discuss&nbsp;the security situation in the Democratic Republic of&nbsp;Congo's violence-torn&nbsp;east, the Kenyan presidency said.

The meeting comes as heavy fighting revives decades-old animosities between Kinshasa and Kigali, with the DRC blaming neighbouring Rwanda for the recent resurgence of the M23 rebel group.

Rwanda has repeatedly denied backing the rebels while both countries have accused each other of carrying out cross-border shelling.

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People in the eastern DRC "have long suffered and continue to pay an inordinately heavy price in loss of lives, property and elusive peace", the Kenyan presidency said in a statement announcing&nbsp;Monday's meeting in Nairobi.

On Wednesday, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta called for the deployment of a regional EAC force in eastern DRC to restore peace, but Kinshasa said it would not accept Rwanda's participation in the operation.

DRC President Felix Tshisekedi&nbsp;has accused Rwanda of seeking "to occupy our land, rich in gold, coltan and cobalt, for their own exploitation and profit" and urged the international community to condemn Kigali.

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Regional commanders of the EAC were expected to&nbsp;meet&nbsp;on Sunday to finalise preparations for the deployment of the joint force.&nbsp;

A UN force, known by its French acronym MONUSCO, is already operating in the DRC.

Kenyatta said the regional force will work alongside local provincial authorities and in close coordination with MONUSCO to disarm anyone bearing illegal firearms.&nbsp;

The mineral-rich DRC is struggling to contain dozens of armed groups in the&nbsp;east&nbsp;of the vast nation, many of which are a legacy of two regional wars a quarter of a century ago.

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A primarily Congolese Tutsi militia, the M23 or "March 23 Movement" this week claimed control of the key town of Bunagana, forcing thousands to flee their homes.

The militia leapt to global prominence in 2012 when it captured Goma.

It was forced out shortly afterwards in a joint offensive by UN troops and the Congolese army.

The group took up arms again in late November having accused the Kinshasa government of failing to respect a 2009 agreement that involved incorporating its fighters into the army.

Relations between Kinshasa and Kigali have been strained since the mass arrival in the DRC of Rwandan Hutus accused of slaughtering Tutsis during the 1994 Rwanda genocide. &nbsp;

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The leaders of seven nations comprising the East African Community bloc will meet Monday to discuss the security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo's violence-torn east, the Kenyan presidency said.

The leaders of seven nations comprising the East African Community bloc will meet Monday to discuss the security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo's violence-torn east, the Kenyan presidency said. The meeting comes as heavy fighting revives decades-old animosities between Kinshasa and Kigali, with the DRC blaming neighbouring Rwanda for the recent resurgence of the M23 rebel group. Rwanda has repeatedly denied backing the rebels while both countries have accused each other of carrying out cross-border shelling. Also read | UK's Rwanda migrant flight cancelled in last minute after European court ruling People in the eastern DRC "have long suffered and continue to pay an inordinately heavy price in loss of lives, property and elusive peace", the Kenyan presidency said in a statement announcing Monday's meeting in Nairobi. On Wednesday, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta called for the deployment of a regional EAC force in eastern DRC to restore peace, but Kinshasa said it would not accept Rwanda's participation in the operation. DRC President Felix Tshisekedi has accused Rwanda of seeking "to occupy our land, rich in gold, coltan and cobalt, for their own exploitation and profit" and urged the international community to condemn Kigali. Watch | UK's Johnson believes in legality of Rwanda migrant plan Regional commanders of the EAC were expected to meet on Sunday to finalise preparations for the deployment of the joint force. A UN force, known by its French acronym MONUSCO, is already operating in the DRC. Kenyatta said the regional force will work alongside local provincial authorities and in close coordination with MONUSCO to disarm anyone bearing illegal firearms. The mineral-rich DRC is struggling to contain dozens of armed groups in the east of the vast nation, many of which are a legacy of two regional wars a quarter of a century ago. Also read | Rwanda deportations: Will UK ditch European rights pact? Priti Patel says preparing for the next flight A primarily Congolese Tutsi militia, the M23 or "March 23 Movement" this week claimed control of the key town of Bunagana, forcing thousands to flee their homes. The militia leapt to global prominence in 2012 when it captured Goma. It was forced out shortly afterwards in a joint offensive by UN troops and the Congolese army. The group took up arms again in late November having accused the Kinshasa government of failing to respect a 2009 agreement that involved incorporating its fighters into the army. Relations between Kinshasa and Kigali have been strained since the mass arrival in the DRC of Rwandan Hutus accused of slaughtering Tutsis during the 1994 Rwanda genocide. 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.

East Africa leaders to meet Monday to discuss DR Congo conflict

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has accused Rwanda of supporting the resurgence of M23 rebels, a development that has renewed long-standing tensions between the neighbouring countries.

Fresh tensions brew between Rwanda & DR Congo

On an island in the Democratic Republic of Congo, coffee bushes are bringing forth a rich harvest of berries. The primary beneficiaries will be women. This is a sector where women are notoriously sidelined and underpaid in Congo.

How Congo Women Will Benefit from Coffee?

Almost as far as the eye can see trash spreads out across the southern end of the majestic lake kivu lapping against the dam that crosses it, it lies on the border between the democratic republic of the congo and Rwanda. However, the ocean of plastic now threatens to clog up the dam's hydroelectric plant.

Plastic pollution clogs hydropower dam in DR Congo

At least 60 people were killed in a militia attack early on Wednesday at a displaced persons` camp in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, according to the head of a local humanitarian group and a camp resident.

Both sources told Reuters that the CODECO militia was responsible for the killings at about 0200 GMT at the Savo camp in Ituri province.

Ituri army spokesman Jules Ngongo confirmed the attack by CODECO and gave a provisional toll of about 20 dead.

Congolese troops came into contact with the militia Tuesday night but the assailants changed direction and got past them to reach the camp, he said.

CODECO is one of an array of militias operating in eastern Congo amid longstanding tensions over land and resources. Its fighters have killed hundreds of civilians in Ituri and forced thousands to flee their homes, according to the United Nations.

In recent months it has targeted displacement camps, where some people had settled after fleeing other attacks by CODECO.

"I first heard cries when I was still in bed. Then several minutes of gunshots. I fled and I saw torches and people crying for help and I realized it was the CODECO militiamen who had invaded our site," said Lokana Bale Lussa, a camp resident.

"We have counted more than 60 dead and (more) seriously injured," he said. "We really need security because we can`t access our farms and now we`re pursued even in our camps."

Charite Banza Bavi, president of the humanitarian group for the Bahema-North area, put the death toll at 63.

"Initial reports indicate that as many as 59 civilians were killed and a further 40 injured," the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) said in a statement. Two students at a school supported by the NRC were among the dead, it added, and the assailants had used both guns and machetes.

Before Wednesday, the NRC said, about 68 people had been killed in attacks on five different camps in the same area since November.

CODECO`s fighters are drawn mainly from the Lendu farming community, which has long been in conflict with Hema herders.

The Savo displacement site is home to 24,000 people, among 1.7 million displaced in Ituri province, the NRC said. At least 1,200 civilians were killed in Ituri province in 2021.

At least 60 people were killed in a militia attack early on Wednesday at a displaced persons` camp in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, according to the head of a local humanitarian group and a camp resident.

At least 60 people were killed in a militia attack early on Wednesday at a displaced persons` camp in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, according to the head of a local humanitarian group and a camp resident. Both sources told Reuters that the CODECO militia was responsible for the killings at about 0200 GMT at the Savo camp in Ituri province. Ituri army spokesman Jules Ngongo confirmed the attack by CODECO and gave a provisional toll of about 20 dead. Congolese troops came into contact with the militia Tuesday night but the assailants changed direction and got past them to reach the camp, he said. CODECO is one of an array of militias operating in eastern Congo amid longstanding tensions over land and resources. Its fighters have killed hundreds of civilians in Ituri and forced thousands to flee their homes, according to the United Nations. In recent months it has targeted displacement camps, where some people had settled after fleeing other attacks by CODECO. "I first heard cries when I was still in bed. Then several minutes of gunshots. I fled and I saw torches and people crying for help and I realized it was the CODECO militiamen who had invaded our site," said Lokana Bale Lussa, a camp resident. "We have counted more than 60 dead and (more) seriously injured," he said. "We really need security because we can`t access our farms and now we`re pursued even in our camps." Charite Banza Bavi, president of the humanitarian group for the Bahema-North area, put the death toll at 63. "Initial reports indicate that as many as 59 civilians were killed and a further 40 injured," the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) said in a statement. Two students at a school supported by the NRC were among the dead, it added, and the assailants had used both guns and machetes. Before Wednesday, the NRC said, about 68 people had been killed in attacks on five different camps in the same area since November. CODECO`s fighters are drawn mainly from the Lendu farming community, which has long been in conflict with Hema herders. The Savo displacement site is home to 24,000 people, among 1.7 million displaced in Ituri province, the NRC said. At least 1,200 civilians were killed in Ituri province in 2021.

At least 60 people killed in militia attack in eastern DR Congo

Sea level rise caused by global warming is threatening a Loango bay on the west coast of Congo. Once home to an important slave trading post, this bay is at risk of washing away along with its important history.

Global warming is threatening Congo's Loango Bay

A suicide bomb attack has killed at least 5 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s eastern city of Beni on Christmas Day.

Suicide bomb attack kills at least 5 in eastern Congo on Christmas Day

Chinese authorities have ordered the country's six mining companies to stop mining operations and leave a province in Democratic Republic of Congo. This came after Congo's South Kivu province ordered the companies to suspend operations over illegal mining and destruction of environment.

On Tuesday, Director-General of African Affairs at China's foreign ministry Wu Peng tweeted that the companies had been ordered to leave the South Kivu province. Saying that Chinese companies will not be allowed to break local laws in DR Congo, Peng said the six companies found to be breaking Congolese laws will be "punished and sanctioned" by China.

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Recently, the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DRC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DRC</a> governor ordered six Chinese and Sino-foreign joint venture mining companies in South Kivu province to suspend the operations for the illegal mining activities. We support the DRC in cracking down on illegal economic activities in accordance with the law.
— 吴鹏 Wu Peng (@WuPeng_MFAChina) <a href="https://twitter.com/WuPeng_MFAChina/status/1437744924921761798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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South China Morning Post however, reported that the companies were asked to leave DR Congo.

The governor of Congo’s eastern South Kivu province, Theo Kasi, suspended the operations of the six small Chinese companies on Aug 20, ordering all local and foreign staff to leave the sites.

Kasi said the suspension came after the companies missed a deadline to register their activities with the authorities.

Kasi identified the companies as BM Global Business, Congo Blueant Minerals, Orientale Ressource Congo, Yellow Water Ressources, New Continent Mineral, and Groupe Cristal, ordering all local and foreign staff to leave the sites. Reuters was unable to reach the companies for comment.

Chinese authorities have ordered the country's six mining companies to stop mining operations and leave a province in Democratic Republic of Congo. This came after Congo's South Kivu province ordered the companies to suspend operations over illegal mining and destruction of environment.

Chinese authorities have ordered the country's six mining companies to stop mining operations and leave a province in Democratic Republic of Congo. This came after Congo's South Kivu province ordered the companies to suspend operations over illegal mining and destruction of environment. On Tuesday, Director-General of African Affairs at China's foreign ministry Wu Peng tweeted that the companies had been ordered to leave the South Kivu province. Saying that Chinese companies will not be allowed to break local laws in DR Congo, Peng said the six companies found to be breaking Congolese laws will be "punished and sanctioned" by China. Recently, the #DRC governor ordered six Chinese and Sino-foreign joint venture mining companies in South Kivu province to suspend the operations for the illegal mining activities. We support the DRC in cracking down on illegal economic activities in accordance with the law. — 吴鹏 Wu Peng (@WuPeng_MFAChina) September 14, 2021 × South China Morning Post however, reported that the companies were asked to leave DR Congo. The governor of Congo’s eastern South Kivu province, Theo Kasi, suspended the operations of the six small Chinese companies on Aug 20, ordering all local and foreign staff to leave the sites. Kasi said the suspension came after the companies missed a deadline to register their activities with the authorities. Kasi identified the companies as BM Global Business, Congo Blueant Minerals, Orientale Ressource Congo, Yellow Water Ressources, New Continent Mineral, and Groupe Cristal, ordering all local and foreign staff to leave the sites. Reuters was unable to reach the companies for comment.

China orders six of its mining companies to leave Congolese region

Twelve people have died and thousands have fallen ill after a river in southern DR Congo was polluted by toxic waste from a diamond mine, the government said.

Pollution of the Kasai River came to light in July, when local residents said its waters had turned red and dead fish were seen floating at the city of Tshikapa, near the Angolan-owned mine.&nbsp;

In addition to 12 fatalities, whose cause of death is unknown, 4,502 cases of diarrhoea and skin-related illness have been recorded, Environment Minister Eve Bazaiba said late Thursday.

"This catastrophe was caused by an Angolan mining company, which has acknowledged the facts," she said, reporting on the findings of an expert bilateral commission of inquiry.

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In July, Bazaiba linked the pollution to a "spill of toxic substances by an Angolan factory specialising in industrial diamond mining".

Local officials also saw dead hippos in the Kasai, a major tributary to the Congo, the second longest African river after the Nile.

Four out of the five administrative territories in Kasai province have been affected by the disaster, totalling 968,000 people, the probe found.

The provincial authorities banned consumption of the river water, but it was too late to avoid some people falling sick.

The government said 40 tonnes (88,000 pounds) of medication to the area and the national water company is taking steps to increase supplies to those affected.

"Compensation should be paid to those who are victims, on the basis of the polluter-pays principle," the government said.

Twelve people have died and thousands have fallen ill after a river in southern DR Congo was polluted by toxic waste from a diamond mine, the government said. Pollution of the Kasai River came to light in July, when local residents said its waters had turned red and dead fish were seen floating at the city of Tshikapa, near the Angolan-owned mine.

Twelve people have died and thousands have fallen ill after a river in southern DR Congo was polluted by toxic waste from a diamond mine, the government said. Pollution of the Kasai River came to light in July, when local residents said its waters had turned red and dead fish were seen floating at the city of Tshikapa, near the Angolan-owned mine. In addition to 12 fatalities, whose cause of death is unknown, 4,502 cases of diarrhoea and skin-related illness have been recorded, Environment Minister Eve Bazaiba said late Thursday. "This catastrophe was caused by an Angolan mining company, which has acknowledged the facts," she said, reporting on the findings of an expert bilateral commission of inquiry. Also read | Women protest in Afghanistan's Herat over right to education, work In July, Bazaiba linked the pollution to a "spill of toxic substances by an Angolan factory specialising in industrial diamond mining". Local officials also saw dead hippos in the Kasai, a major tributary to the Congo, the second longest African river after the Nile. Four out of the five administrative territories in Kasai province have been affected by the disaster, totalling 968,000 people, the probe found. The provincial authorities banned consumption of the river water, but it was too late to avoid some people falling sick. The government said 40 tonnes (88,000 pounds) of medication to the area and the national water company is taking steps to increase supplies to those affected. "Compensation should be paid to those who are victims, on the basis of the polluter-pays principle," the government said.

12 dead after mining pollution in DR Congo river

Toxic&nbsp;substances emitted in Angola have turned a&nbsp;river&nbsp;red in the Democratic Republic of&nbsp;Congo, the environment minister said on Friday, warning of an "ecological catastrophe" as the pollution kills wildlife including&nbsp;hippos.&nbsp;

This "discolouration would be caused by a&nbsp;toxic&nbsp;substance spill by an Angolan factory specialising in industrial diamond mining,"&nbsp;DR&nbsp;Congo&nbsp;Enviroment Minister Eve Bazaiba said in a statement.

Polluted tributaries are feeding into the Kasai&nbsp;river&nbsp;in the west of the vast central African country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-issues-new-terrorism-threat-warning-ahead-of-911-anniversary-405276">Also read |&nbsp;US issues new terrorism threat warning ahead of 9/11 anniversary</a>

Local officials in the Kasai region said the dead bodies of&nbsp;hippos&nbsp;and fish had been found in the polluted waters, she said.

The Kasai feeds into the&nbsp;Congo&nbsp;River, the second longest African&nbsp;river&nbsp;after the&nbsp;Nile.

The situation is an "ecological catastrophe", for the local populations, said Bazaiba.

The discolouration was "on the brink of reaching Kinshasa" where over 10 million people live, she added.

So far the exact nature of the&nbsp;toxic&nbsp;substances polluting the waterways is unknown. A team of environment ministry experts has been rushed to the area to collect samples of&nbsp;river&nbsp;water.

Toxic substances emitted in Angola have turned a river red in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the environment minister said on Friday, warning of an "ecological catastrophe" as the pollution kills wildlife including hippos.

Toxic substances emitted in Angola have turned a river red in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the environment minister said on Friday, warning of an "ecological catastrophe" as the pollution kills wildlife including hippos. This "discolouration would be caused by a toxic substance spill by an Angolan factory specialising in industrial diamond mining," DR Congo Enviroment Minister Eve Bazaiba said in a statement. Polluted tributaries are feeding into the Kasai river in the west of the vast central African country. Also read | US issues new terrorism threat warning ahead of 9/11 anniversary Local officials in the Kasai region said the dead bodies of hippos and fish had been found in the polluted waters, she said. The Kasai feeds into the Congo River, the second longest African river after the Nile. The situation is an "ecological catastrophe", for the local populations, said Bazaiba. The discolouration was "on the brink of reaching Kinshasa" where over 10 million people live, she added. So far the exact nature of the toxic substances polluting the waterways is unknown. A team of environment ministry experts has been rushed to the area to collect samples of river water.

Hippos die as DR Congo river contaminated with 'toxic' waste

The United Nations raised the alarm on Friday over widespread, systematic sexual violence in the southeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, saying women were reporting armed groups carrying out&nbsp;mass&nbsp;rape.

UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, said its staff were hearing horrific testimonies from forcibly displaced persons in the DR Congo's Tanganyika Province.

The agency is "gravely concerned about incidents of widespread and systematic sexual violence against Congolese women and girls", spokeswoman Shabia Mantoo told reporters in Geneva.

"In just the past two weeks, humanitarian partners in the Kongolo and Mbulula health zones, have recorded 243 incidents of&nbsp;rape, 48 of which involved minors, in 12 different villages."

The actual figures are thought to be even higher as reporting of gender-based violence remains a taboo in most communities.

"The attacks are reportedly being carried out by rival armed groups competing to maintain control over mining areas -- especially gold mines -- and as retaliation against government-led military operations," said Mantoo.

"Civilians find themselves trapped in the middle of intense confrontations between different groups.

"Our staff have heard horrific testimonies of extreme violence. Forcibly displaced persons have accused armed groups of carrying out&nbsp;mass&nbsp;rape&nbsp;as women attempt to flee their homes."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-issues-new-terrorism-threat-warning-ahead-of-911-anniversary-405276">Also read |&nbsp;US issues new terrorism threat warning ahead of 9/11 anniversary</a>

She said some women and girls had been abducted and used as sex slaves, while ransoms have been &nbsp;demanded from families in exchange for their freedom.

According to UN estimates, nearly 310,000 people have been uprooted by insecurity and violence and are currently displaced in Tanganyika Province.

Mantoo said more than 23,000 people had been displaced since May in the province's northern Kongolo Territory alone, according to local authorities, with most having fled insecurity multiple times.

The UNHCR called on the authorities to scale up security in the so-called "triangle of death" in the wider region to protect civilians, allow humanitarian access, and launch investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The agency said it had received 36 percent of the $205 million needed for its operations in the DR Congo.

The United Nations raised the alarm on Friday over widespread, systematic sexual violence in the southeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, saying women were reporting armed groups carrying out mass rape.

The United Nations raised the alarm on Friday over widespread, systematic sexual violence in the southeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, saying women were reporting armed groups carrying out mass rape. UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, said its staff were hearing horrific testimonies from forcibly displaced persons in the DR Congo's Tanganyika Province. The agency is "gravely concerned about incidents of widespread and systematic sexual violence against Congolese women and girls", spokeswoman Shabia Mantoo told reporters in Geneva. "In just the past two weeks, humanitarian partners in the Kongolo and Mbulula health zones, have recorded 243 incidents of rape, 48 of which involved minors, in 12 different villages." The actual figures are thought to be even higher as reporting of gender-based violence remains a taboo in most communities. "The attacks are reportedly being carried out by rival armed groups competing to maintain control over mining areas -- especially gold mines -- and as retaliation against government-led military operations," said Mantoo. "Civilians find themselves trapped in the middle of intense confrontations between different groups. "Our staff have heard horrific testimonies of extreme violence. Forcibly displaced persons have accused armed groups of carrying out mass rape as women attempt to flee their homes." Also read | US issues new terrorism threat warning ahead of 9/11 anniversary She said some women and girls had been abducted and used as sex slaves, while ransoms have been demanded from families in exchange for their freedom. According to UN estimates, nearly 310,000 people have been uprooted by insecurity and violence and are currently displaced in Tanganyika Province. Mantoo said more than 23,000 people had been displaced since May in the province's northern Kongolo Territory alone, according to local authorities, with most having fled insecurity multiple times. The UNHCR called on the authorities to scale up security in the so-called "triangle of death" in the wider region to protect civilians, allow humanitarian access, and launch investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice. The agency said it had received 36 percent of the $205 million needed for its operations in the DR Congo.

UN raises alarm on 'mass rape' in southeast DR Congo

A&nbsp;journalist&nbsp;for&nbsp;DR&nbsp;Congo's national broadcaster had his throat slit in North Kivu in the country's east where massacres and clashes involving armed groups have prevailed for years.

Heritier Magayane, 26, who was married and had two children, had been working for Radio Television nationale congolaise in Rutshuru territory since 2018, his colleague Roger Sebyeradu told AFP.

He received a phone call from someone who arranged a place to meet him and that's where he was killed overnight Saturday, his throat slit, said Luc Albert Bakole Nyengeke, Rutshuru's military administrator.

The region is plagued by various armed groups but the area where he was killed was controlled by the Congolese army, he said, adding a probe was underway on Sunday.

His colleague Sebyeradu said he thought his murder could be linked to his work. "After killing him they even took his phone," he said.

Magayane fronted programmes for young people, advising them to "make room for peace" in a deeply unstable region, he added.

North Kivu and neighbouring Ituri have been in a state of siege for three months, the strongest measure under the constitution, as the government tries to end endemic insecurity in the east.

Civilian power in both provinces was turned over to a military governor and a deputy governor drawn from the police, while the duties of provincial governments were transferred to the military authorities.

A journalist for DR Congo's national broadcaster had his throat slit in North Kivu in the country's east where massacres and clashes involving armed groups have prevailed for years.

A journalist for DR Congo's national broadcaster had his throat slit in North Kivu in the country's east where massacres and clashes involving armed groups have prevailed for years. Heritier Magayane, 26, who was married and had two children, had been working for Radio Television nationale congolaise in Rutshuru territory since 2018, his colleague Roger Sebyeradu told AFP. He received a phone call from someone who arranged a place to meet him and that's where he was killed overnight Saturday, his throat slit, said Luc Albert Bakole Nyengeke, Rutshuru's military administrator. The region is plagued by various armed groups but the area where he was killed was controlled by the Congolese army, he said, adding a probe was underway on Sunday. His colleague Sebyeradu said he thought his murder could be linked to his work. "After killing him they even took his phone," he said. Magayane fronted programmes for young people, advising them to "make room for peace" in a deeply unstable region, he added. North Kivu and neighbouring Ituri have been in a state of siege for three months, the strongest measure under the constitution, as the government tries to end endemic insecurity in the east. Civilian power in both provinces was turned over to a military governor and a deputy governor drawn from the police, while the duties of provincial governments were transferred to the military authorities.

Journalist murdered in eastern DR Congo

Congolese authorities said Sunday the coronavirus&nbsp;epidemic&nbsp;had eased in many&nbsp;parts&nbsp;of the country but remained worrying in the economic capital of Lubumbashi where not wearing a mask will now be punishable by up to seven days in jail.

Health Minister Jean-Jacques Mbungani said there had been "a marked drop in&nbsp;COVID-19 cases across the country," according to a statement released by the prime minister's office.

In Kinshasa, the situation was particularly hopeful.

"The third wave is steadily decreasing and we can say that it is behind us," Professor Jean-Jacques Muyembe, in charge of the fight against the pandemic, told the press.

"But we must be vigilant, continue to wear the mask properly and get vaccinated when the country has received the vaccines we are expecting."

Also read |&nbsp;COVID-19 variant 'no joke,' young Mexicans warn from hospital

Lubumbashi, however, was experiencing a "resurgence of the pandemic," its mayor Ghislain Robert Lubaba Buluma said Saturday in a decree announcing new prevention measures.

People would have to wear a mask to access the city centre, and "checkpoints" would be put in place from Monday to make sure the measure was followed.

Anyone not wearing a mask ""will be sentenced to seven days' imprisonment and a fine of 15,000 Congolese francs," or about 6 euros, the decree states.

Coronavirus has infected 51,254 people in the DRC, with 1,045&nbsp;fatalities, according to an AFP tally of official sources.

Congolese authorities said Sunday the coronavirus epidemic had eased in many parts of the country but remained worrying in the economic capital of Lubumbashi where not wearing a mask will now be punishable by up to seven days in jail.

Congolese authorities said Sunday the coronavirus epidemic had eased in many parts of the country but remained worrying in the economic capital of Lubumbashi where not wearing a mask will now be punishable by up to seven days in jail. Health Minister Jean-Jacques Mbungani said there had been "a marked drop in COVID-19 cases across the country," according to a statement released by the prime minister's office. In Kinshasa, the situation was particularly hopeful. "The third wave is steadily decreasing and we can say that it is behind us," Professor Jean-Jacques Muyembe, in charge of the fight against the pandemic, told the press. "But we must be vigilant, continue to wear the mask properly and get vaccinated when the country has received the vaccines we are expecting." Also read | COVID-19 variant 'no joke,' young Mexicans warn from hospital Lubumbashi, however, was experiencing a "resurgence of the pandemic," its mayor Ghislain Robert Lubaba Buluma said Saturday in a decree announcing new prevention measures. People would have to wear a mask to access the city centre, and "checkpoints" would be put in place from Monday to make sure the measure was followed. Anyone not wearing a mask ""will be sentenced to seven days' imprisonment and a fine of 15,000 Congolese francs," or about 6 euros, the decree states. Coronavirus has infected 51,254 people in the DRC, with 1,045 fatalities, according to an AFP tally of official sources.

COVID-19 epidemic eases in parts of DR Congo

A policeman in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) shot a student for not wearing a mask while filming on the streets of the capital city.

The victim&nbsp;was a student at the University of Kinshasa who was shooting the streets of the capital city for a practical work project when he was shot by a policeman.

"Our friend Honore Shama, a student in the faculty of arts at the University of Kinshasa, was filming a video as part of his acting practical work requirement," Patient Odia, a friend who was present at the confrontation, told AFP. "A policeman told him to wear a mask during the filming."

Apparently, the student had offered his explanation to the police officer, who still shot the student after he got frustrated, probably after he was not offered money.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-mountain-made-of-gold-rich-ores-found-in-dr-congo-locals-rush-in-with-shovels-368750">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-mountain-made-of-gold-rich-ores-found-in-dr-congo-locals-rush-in-with-shovels-368750/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Despite his (Shama's) explanations and after having shown him a mask, the policeman, who was expecting to be offered money, became infuriated, accused him of resisting and shot him at point-blank range,"&nbsp;the witness claimed.

The story of several witnesses recounted the same narration, which was featured on a local radio channel.

After the incident, the policeman has reportedly fled the city, but two other officers who were present at the scene have been detained.

"Police have detained two police officers, present during the incident provoked by their irresponsible colleague... as well as the head," General Sylvano Kasongo, the head of Kinshasa police said. "The search continues to find the fugitive policeman."

DR Congo follows a strict policy when it comes to mask wearing. Anyone found flouting the rules is fined $5 (10,000 Congolese Frances). However, several locals have complained of police officers harassing them to collect money.

A policeman in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) shot a student for not wearing a mask while filming on the streets of the capital city. The victim was a student at the University of Kinshasa who was shooting the streets of the capital city for a practical work project when he was shot by a policeman.

A policeman in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) shot a student for not wearing a mask while filming on the streets of the capital city. The victim was a student at the University of Kinshasa who was shooting the streets of the capital city for a practical work project when he was shot by a policeman. "Our friend Honore Shama, a student in the faculty of arts at the University of Kinshasa, was filming a video as part of his acting practical work requirement," Patient Odia, a friend who was present at the confrontation, told AFP. "A policeman told him to wear a mask during the filming." Apparently, the student had offered his explanation to the police officer, who still shot the student after he got frustrated, probably after he was not offered money. WATCH | "Despite his (Shama's) explanations and after having shown him a mask, the policeman, who was expecting to be offered money, became infuriated, accused him of resisting and shot him at point-blank range," the witness claimed. The story of several witnesses recounted the same narration, which was featured on a local radio channel. After the incident, the policeman has reportedly fled the city, but two other officers who were present at the scene have been detained. "Police have detained two police officers, present during the incident provoked by their irresponsible colleague... as well as the head," General Sylvano Kasongo, the head of Kinshasa police said. "The search continues to find the fugitive policeman." DR Congo follows a strict policy when it comes to mask wearing. Anyone found flouting the rules is fined $5 (10,000 Congolese Frances). However, several locals have complained of police officers harassing them to collect money.

DR Congo: Policeman shoots student for not wearing mask

The government of Democratic Republic of Congo said on Saturday that eruption of second volcano was a 'false alarm'. The government had made an announcement about the eruption just hours ago. This came just a week after Mount Nyiragongo erupted causing devastation and mass exodus.

The government had said that Murara volcano had a "low intensity" eruption on Saturday morning sending lava flowing into an uninhabited area of Virunga Park.&nbsp;

Virunga Park is a wildlife reserve home to a quarter of the world's critically endangered mountain gorillas.

Murara is a small volcano considered to be a crater of Mount Nyamuragira, which along with Nyiragongo is known for strong volcanic activity.

However, the communications ministry then issued another statement saying "false alarm on Nyamuragira".

"A plane has just flown over the entire area on the sides of this volcano. No eruption was observed," it added.

"It was instead intense activities of carbonising wood into charcoal, the smoke of which was perceived as volcanic activity."&nbsp;

Aerial images of Nyamuragira taken Saturday morning and viewed by AFP showed just a few wisps of white smoke in the volcano's crater.

Murara rises 25 kilometres (15 miles) north of Goma, capital of North Kivu province.

Mass evacuation

City in the shadow of Nyiragongo, Africa's most active volcano is still living in fear since the eruption on last Saturday. The strato-volcano spewed rivers of lava that claimed nearly three dozen lives and destroyed the homes of some 20,000 people before the eruption stopped.

Hundreds of aftershocks have rocked the region since and around 400,000 people have been evacuated from Goma.

(With inputs from agencies)

The government of Democratic Republic of Congo said on Saturday that eruption of second volcano was a 'false alarm'. The government had made an announcement about the eruption just hours ago.

The government of Democratic Republic of Congo said on Saturday that eruption of second volcano was a 'false alarm'. The government had made an announcement about the eruption just hours ago. This came just a week after Mount Nyiragongo erupted causing devastation and mass exodus. The government had said that Murara volcano had a "low intensity" eruption on Saturday morning sending lava flowing into an uninhabited area of Virunga Park. Virunga Park is a wildlife reserve home to a quarter of the world's critically endangered mountain gorillas. Murara is a small volcano considered to be a crater of Mount Nyamuragira, which along with Nyiragongo is known for strong volcanic activity. However, the communications ministry then issued another statement saying "false alarm on Nyamuragira". "A plane has just flown over the entire area on the sides of this volcano. No eruption was observed," it added. "It was instead intense activities of carbonising wood into charcoal, the smoke of which was perceived as volcanic activity." Aerial images of Nyamuragira taken Saturday morning and viewed by AFP showed just a few wisps of white smoke in the volcano's crater. Murara rises 25 kilometres (15 miles) north of Goma, capital of North Kivu province. Mass evacuation City in the shadow of Nyiragongo, Africa's most active volcano is still living in fear since the eruption on last Saturday. The strato-volcano spewed rivers of lava that claimed nearly three dozen lives and destroyed the homes of some 20,000 people before the eruption stopped. Hundreds of aftershocks have rocked the region since and around 400,000 people have been evacuated from Goma. (With inputs from agencies)

Warning on second DR Congo volcano eruption a 'false alarm'

An exodus of tens of thousands of people took place after authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo ordered the evacuation of part of Goma city on Thursday. The order was issued due to the risk of further eruptions from the volcano Nyiragongo.

DR Congo orders evacuation in eruption hit Goma, move triggers mass exodus

Thirty people were sentenced to death in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Saturday for their role in anti-police violence marking the end of Ramadan in the capital Kinshasa.

A policeman was killed on Thursday as rival Muslim groups fought over the right to mark the end of Ramadan at a major sports stadium, officials said.

The government has also confirmed that one policewoman is in critical condition and 46 others were injured with eight in a serious state.

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About ten police vehicles were damaged including one that was completely incinerated.

A total of 38 people who had been arrested appeared at Friday's trial.

The trial was broadcast live on public television and lasted until the early hours of Saturday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamist-militia-kills-malawian-peacekeeper-in-east-congo-un-384170" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/islamist-militia-kills-malawian-peacekeeper-in-east-congo-un-384170&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjgrdaC4MvwAhWj4jgGHYPPBIMQFjACegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3lsaH7VzlSH3vRB0qD8A_i" dir="ltr" href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/islamist-militia-kills-malawian-peacekeeper-in-east-congo-un-384170&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjgrdaC4MvwAhWj4jgGHYPPBIMQFjACegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3lsaH7VzlSH3vRB0qD8A_i" target="_blank">Islamist militia kills Malawian peacekeeper in east&nbsp;Congo: UN</a>

A lawyer for civil parties, Chief Tshipamba, told AFP 30 people were sentenced to death and a recording of the proceedings obtained by AFP confirmed the verdict.

DR Congo has not carried out death penalties since a moratorium was introduced in 2003. Since then, death sentences are commuted to life imprisonment.

Two rival factions have for years disputed the leadership of the DRC's Comico Muslim federation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/congo-declares-state-of-siege-over-eastern-bloodshed-381915" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/congo-declares-state-of-siege-over-eastern-bloodshed-381915&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjgrdaC4MvwAhWj4jgGHYPPBIMQFjAHegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3cUaK092BY7ClLisPQz4SK" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/congo-declares-state-of-siege-over-eastern-bloodshed-381915" target="_blank">Congo&nbsp;declares state of siege over eastern bloodshed</a>

While the case remains before the courts, the two sides remain at odds and occasionally come to blows.

Around 10 percent of the DRC's population are Muslim, most concentrated in the country's east.

But Kinshasa on the Congo river in the west of the vast central African country also traditionally sees mass celebrations for the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan in public squares and on major roads.

Speaking with AFP reporters outside the stadium, dismayed worshipper Papy Okitankoyi Kimoto said it was "devastating to do a month of fasting only to have it end in guerilla street scenes like this".

Widely circulated images of the violence and of the injured police officers have prompted authorities to call for religious leaders to be held accountable.

DR Congo's minister of sports Serge Chembo Nkonde has sanctioned the managers of the stadium where the violence took place.

Thirty people were sentenced to death in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Saturday for their role in anti-police violence marking the end of Ramadan in the capital Kinshasa.

Thirty people were sentenced to death in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Saturday for their role in anti-police violence marking the end of Ramadan in the capital Kinshasa. A policeman was killed on Thursday as rival Muslim groups fought over the right to mark the end of Ramadan at a major sports stadium, officials said. The government has also confirmed that one policewoman is in critical condition and 46 others were injured with eight in a serious state. Also read | Sex abuse row tarnishes WHO in Congo About ten police vehicles were damaged including one that was completely incinerated. A total of 38 people who had been arrested appeared at Friday's trial. The trial was broadcast live on public television and lasted until the early hours of Saturday. Also read | Islamist militia kills Malawian peacekeeper in east Congo: UN A lawyer for civil parties, Chief Tshipamba, told AFP 30 people were sentenced to death and a recording of the proceedings obtained by AFP confirmed the verdict. DR Congo has not carried out death penalties since a moratorium was introduced in 2003. Since then, death sentences are commuted to life imprisonment. Two rival factions have for years disputed the leadership of the DRC's Comico Muslim federation. Also read | Congo declares state of siege over eastern bloodshed While the case remains before the courts, the two sides remain at odds and occasionally come to blows. Around 10 percent of the DRC's population are Muslim, most concentrated in the country's east. But Kinshasa on the Congo river in the west of the vast central African country also traditionally sees mass celebrations for the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan in public squares and on major roads. Speaking with AFP reporters outside the stadium, dismayed worshipper Papy Okitankoyi Kimoto said it was "devastating to do a month of fasting only to have it end in guerilla street scenes like this". Widely circulated images of the violence and of the injured police officers have prompted authorities to call for religious leaders to be held accountable. DR Congo's minister of sports Serge Chembo Nkonde has sanctioned the managers of the stadium where the violence took place.

30 sentenced to death over anti-police clashes in DR Congo

Hospitals in DR Congo's troubled North Kivu province have been overwhelmed by people wounded by weapons after violent protests over the UN's perceived failure to stem civilian massacres, the international Red Cross said Saturday.

Anger at the country's UN mission has built up over persistent deadly massacres by a local armed group, leading to protests -- and even a general strike -- since April 5 in which around 10 people have died.

More than 120 wounded people were being treated at hospitals in the North Kivu capital Goma and in the city of Beni with the help of the International Committee of the Red Cross, it said in a statement.

As of April 14, medical teams in Beni were treating 51 people wounded by weapons, including "nine new cases linked to the recent demonstrations," it said.

"Currently we have reached our limit in terms of reception capacity" in Beni, which has 43 beds, and the 74 beds in Goma's hospitals were nearly full, Red Cross spokesman Kelnor Panglungtshang said.

"Teams have been deployed for more than a week to respond to this influx," he said. 
He added that the numbers had soared following the violence in several parts of North Kivu since the start of the week.

The demonstrations -- as well as a general strike in numerous cities including Beni, Goma and Butembo -- were called by activist groups and citizen movements to condemn the alleged inaction of UN mission MONUSCO in the face of repeated civilian massacres in the Beni region.&nbsp;

In response to the violence, earlier this week the provincial governor banned all protests in North Kivu.

Doctors Without Borders said that it had taken in "17 patients, the majority of them trauma cases" following clashes between armed groups in the Masisi territory on April 9 and 10.

Beni has seen more than 6,000 people, primarily civilians, killed since 2013, according to a recent tally by the Catholic Church.&nbsp;

Authorities blame the massacres on an armed group, the Allied Democratic Forces, that the United States recently classified as a "terrorist" organisation affiliated with the Islamic State.

Hospitals in DR Congo's troubled North Kivu province have been overwhelmed by people wounded by weapons after violent protests over the UN's perceived failure to stem civilian massacres, the international Red Cross said Saturday.

Hospitals in DR Congo's troubled North Kivu province have been overwhelmed by people wounded by weapons after violent protests over the UN's perceived failure to stem civilian massacres, the international Red Cross said Saturday. Anger at the country's UN mission has built up over persistent deadly massacres by a local armed group, leading to protests -- and even a general strike -- since April 5 in which around 10 people have died. More than 120 wounded people were being treated at hospitals in the North Kivu capital Goma and in the city of Beni with the help of the International Committee of the Red Cross, it said in a statement. As of April 14, medical teams in Beni were treating 51 people wounded by weapons, including "nine new cases linked to the recent demonstrations," it said. "Currently we have reached our limit in terms of reception capacity" in Beni, which has 43 beds, and the 74 beds in Goma's hospitals were nearly full, Red Cross spokesman Kelnor Panglungtshang said. "Teams have been deployed for more than a week to respond to this influx," he said. He added that the numbers had soared following the violence in several parts of North Kivu since the start of the week. The demonstrations -- as well as a general strike in numerous cities including Beni, Goma and Butembo -- were called by activist groups and citizen movements to condemn the alleged inaction of UN mission MONUSCO in the face of repeated civilian massacres in the Beni region. In response to the violence, earlier this week the provincial governor banned all protests in North Kivu. Doctors Without Borders said that it had taken in "17 patients, the majority of them trauma cases" following clashes between armed groups in the Masisi territory on April 9 and 10. Beni has seen more than 6,000 people, primarily civilians, killed since 2013, according to a recent tally by the Catholic Church. Authorities blame the massacres on an armed group, the Allied Democratic Forces, that the United States recently classified as a "terrorist" organisation affiliated with the Islamic State.

Wounded from anti-UN protests flood DR Congo hospitals

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Food Programme, a record 27.3 million people in the Democratic Republic of Congo are facing acute hunger.

UN Agencies: Scale of acute hunger in DR Congo is now ' staggering'

The United States on Wednesday blacklisted two Islamist extremist organisations in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mozambique over their connections with the Islamic State.&nbsp;

"The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) announced the launch of the Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) in April 2019 to promote the presence of ISIS associated elements within Central, East, and Southern Africa," the State Department in a statement said.&nbsp;

"Although ISIS-associated media portray ISCAP as a unified structure, ISIS-DRC and ISIS-Mozambique are distinct groups with distinct origins."&nbsp;

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The state department said that the two groups "have committed or pose a significant risk of committing acts of terrorism."

It also named the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Congo and its leader Seka Musa Baluku and Mozambique's Ahlu Sunnah Wa-Jama and its chief Abu Yasir Hassan "specially designated global terrorists".

The ADF and Ahlu Sunnah Wa-Jama are dubbed by the US as ISIS-DRC and ISIS-Mozambique.

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The ADF, a Ugandan insurgent faction, has been involved in several brutal assaults on civilians since the army started operations against it in late 2019, reports news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

It has been blamed for the killing of more than 140 people in 2021, in about weekly attacks in Congo's restive east.&nbsp;

According to the UN, the ADF has killed approximate 850 people last year.&nbsp;

Laren Poole from the Bridgeway Foundation, a US-based thinktank said that the recognition and funding to the group by ISIS has pushed the group's deadly expansion.&nbsp;

Ahlu Sunnah Wa-Jama, called Al-Shabaab in Mozambique, staged its first attack in 2017.&nbsp;

Initially known largely for beheadings, the fighters declared allegiance to Islamic State in 2019 and have since intensified its operations.&nbsp;

The United States on Wednesday blacklisted two Islamist extremist organisations in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mozambique over their connections with the Islamic State.

The United States on Wednesday blacklisted two Islamist extremist organisations in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mozambique over their connections with the Islamic State. "The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) announced the launch of the Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) in April 2019 to promote the presence of ISIS associated elements within Central, East, and Southern Africa," the State Department in a statement said. "Although ISIS-associated media portray ISCAP as a unified structure, ISIS-DRC and ISIS-Mozambique are distinct groups with distinct origins." Also read | US to blacklist dozens of Chinese firms including SMIC, report says The state department said that the two groups "have committed or pose a significant risk of committing acts of terrorism." It also named the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Congo and its leader Seka Musa Baluku and Mozambique's Ahlu Sunnah Wa-Jama and its chief Abu Yasir Hassan "specially designated global terrorists". The ADF and Ahlu Sunnah Wa-Jama are dubbed by the US as ISIS-DRC and ISIS-Mozambique. Also read | Why global terror financing watchdog FATF should blacklist Pakistan The ADF, a Ugandan insurgent faction, has been involved in several brutal assaults on civilians since the army started operations against it in late 2019, reports news agency Reuters. It has been blamed for the killing of more than 140 people in 2021, in about weekly attacks in Congo's restive east. According to the UN, the ADF has killed approximate 850 people last year. Laren Poole from the Bridgeway Foundation, a US-based thinktank said that the recognition and funding to the group by ISIS has pushed the group's deadly expansion. Ahlu Sunnah Wa-Jama, called Al-Shabaab in Mozambique, staged its first attack in 2017. Initially known largely for beheadings, the fighters declared allegiance to Islamic State in 2019 and have since intensified its operations.

US blacklists two groups in Congo and Mozambique over connections with ISIS

Hundreds of villagers flocked to a small village of Luhihi in the Democratic Republic of Congo to illegally mine gold after a mountain made-up of gold deposits were discovered. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Authorities had to announce a ban on mining activities after the gold rush in South Kivu province drew thousands of diggers to the site.&nbsp;

Freelance journalist Ahmad Algobary shared a video on his Twitter account that shows villagers digging out the mountain.

“A video from the Republic of the Congo documents the biggest surprise for some villagers in this country, as an entire mountain filled with gold was discovered! They dig the soil inside the gold deposits and take them to their homes to wash the dirt&amp; extract the gold”, the journalist wrote.

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The moment of washing the dirt and extracting the gold. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Congo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Congo</a> <a href="https://t.co/7L1V1Clm30">pic.twitter.com/7L1V1Clm30</a>
— Ahmad Algohbary (@AhmadAlgohbary) <a href="https://twitter.com/AhmadAlgohbary/status/1366804215914508288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Subsistence mining - extracting minerals with rudimentary tools - is common across the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the “artisanal” gold mining is especially widespread in the gold-producing east and northeast of the country.

Miners, traders and members of Congo’s armed forces (FARDC) were required to leave the mine sites in and around Luhihi and all mining activities were suspended until further notice, a decree dated on Monday and confirmed by Muhigirwa, said.

The presence of FARDC at the mine sites - prohibited under Congo’s mining code - contributed to the “disorder” at Luhihi, the decree said.

Muhigirwa said the mining suspension would allow authorities to identify the miners and ensure they are properly registered with artisanal mining regulators.

Order must be re-established in mining activities in Luhihi “not only to protect lives but also to ensure the traceability of the gold produced in line with Congolese law,” the decree said.

Gold production in the Congo is systematically underreported and tonnes of precious metal are smuggled into global supply chains through its eastern neighbours, the UN Group of Experts on the Congo reported last year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hundreds of villagers flocked to a small village of Luhihi in the Democratic Republic of Congo to illegally mine gold after a mountain made-up of gold deposits were discovered.

Hundreds of villagers flocked to a small village of Luhihi in the Democratic Republic of Congo to illegally mine gold after a mountain made-up of gold deposits were discovered. Authorities had to announce a ban on mining activities after the gold rush in South Kivu province drew thousands of diggers to the site. Freelance journalist Ahmad Algobary shared a video on his Twitter account that shows villagers digging out the mountain. “A video from the Republic of the Congo documents the biggest surprise for some villagers in this country, as an entire mountain filled with gold was discovered! They dig the soil inside the gold deposits and take them to their homes to wash the dirt& extract the gold”, the journalist wrote. The moment of washing the dirt and extracting the gold. #Congo pic.twitter.com/7L1V1Clm30 — Ahmad Algohbary (@AhmadAlgohbary) March 2, 2021 × Subsistence mining - extracting minerals with rudimentary tools - is common across the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the “artisanal” gold mining is especially widespread in the gold-producing east and northeast of the country. Miners, traders and members of Congo’s armed forces (FARDC) were required to leave the mine sites in and around Luhihi and all mining activities were suspended until further notice, a decree dated on Monday and confirmed by Muhigirwa, said. The presence of FARDC at the mine sites - prohibited under Congo’s mining code - contributed to the “disorder” at Luhihi, the decree said. Muhigirwa said the mining suspension would allow authorities to identify the miners and ensure they are properly registered with artisanal mining regulators. Order must be re-established in mining activities in Luhihi “not only to protect lives but also to ensure the traceability of the gold produced in line with Congolese law,” the decree said. Gold production in the Congo is systematically underreported and tonnes of precious metal are smuggled into global supply chains through its eastern neighbours, the UN Group of Experts on the Congo reported last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Mountain made of gold-rich ores found in DR Congo, locals rush in with shovels

Fighters killed at least 10 civilians in two overnight attacks in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

The fighters are said to be belonging to the notorious Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) militia.

These ADF fighters decapitated eight villagers in the village of Boyo, in the northeast Ituri province, and shot dead two civilians in Kainama, army spokesman Lieutenant Jules Ngongo said.

Soldiers were in pursuit of the attackers.

Local officials confirmed the two attacks, adding that houses were also burned in the violence.

Kainama lies at the extreme north of North Kivu province, where it borders with Ituri. It is just five kilometres (three miles) from Boyo. Both provinces sit on DR Congo's eastern border with Uganda.

The ADF militia are Ugandan Islamic fighters who have made their base in eastern DR Congo since 1995.

While they have not launched raids into Uganda for several years, the militia has been blamed for the killings of more than 800 civilians over the past year in both North Kivu and South Kivu provinces.

While the army has conducted operations against them in the region since October 2019, they have not been able to put a stop to the massacres of civilians.

(with inputs from AFP)

Fighters killed at least 10 civilians in two overnight attacks in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The fighters are said to be belonging to the notorious Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) militia.

Fighters killed at least 10 civilians in two overnight attacks in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The fighters are said to be belonging to the notorious Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) militia. These ADF fighters decapitated eight villagers in the village of Boyo, in the northeast Ituri province, and shot dead two civilians in Kainama, army spokesman Lieutenant Jules Ngongo said. Soldiers were in pursuit of the attackers. Local officials confirmed the two attacks, adding that houses were also burned in the violence. Kainama lies at the extreme north of North Kivu province, where it borders with Ituri. It is just five kilometres (three miles) from Boyo. Both provinces sit on DR Congo's eastern border with Uganda. The ADF militia are Ugandan Islamic fighters who have made their base in eastern DR Congo since 1995. While they have not launched raids into Uganda for several years, the militia has been blamed for the killings of more than 800 civilians over the past year in both North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. While the army has conducted operations against them in the region since October 2019, they have not been able to put a stop to the massacres of civilians. (with inputs from AFP)

Militia raids in eastern DR Congo kill ten civilians

Italy on Wednesday asked the United Nations for a probe into the killing of its envoy to the Democratic Republic of Congo.&nbsp;

"We have formally asked WFP (World Food Programme) and the UN to open an investigation to clarify what happened, the reasons behind the security arrangements used and who was responsible for these decisions," Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio told parliament.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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He said "clear and exhaustive answers" are awaited.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hutu-rebels-blame-drc-rwanda-armies-for-italian-ambassadors-killing-365717">Hutu rebels blame DRC, Rwanda armies for Italian ambassador's killing</a>

Italian ambassador Luca Attanasio, his Italian bodyguard Vittorio Iacovacci, and Congolese driver Moustapha Milambo died after a World Food Programme (WFP) convoy was ambushed on Monday.&nbsp;

The body of both the Italians, draped in Italian flags, reached Rome late on Tuesday, with the Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi receiving them at the Rome airport.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The DRC's interior ministry on Monday blamed "members of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR)" for the killings.

FDLR is a Rwandan Hutu rebel group that has plagued the region for over 25 years.&nbsp;

However, the Rwandan rebel group denied the allegation and, instead blamed the Rwandan army and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) for the act in a statement.&nbsp;

Italy on Wednesday asked the United Nations for a probe into the killing of its envoy to the Democratic Republic of Congo. "We have formally asked WFP (World Food Programme) and the UN to open an investigation to clarify what happened, the reasons behind the security arrangements used and who was responsible for these decisions," Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio told parliament.

Italy on Wednesday asked the United Nations for a probe into the killing of its envoy to the Democratic Republic of Congo. "We have formally asked WFP (World Food Programme) and the UN to open an investigation to clarify what happened, the reasons behind the security arrangements used and who was responsible for these decisions," Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio told parliament. Watch | He said "clear and exhaustive answers" are awaited. Also read | Hutu rebels blame DRC, Rwanda armies for Italian ambassador's killing Italian ambassador Luca Attanasio, his Italian bodyguard Vittorio Iacovacci, and Congolese driver Moustapha Milambo died after a World Food Programme (WFP) convoy was ambushed on Monday. The body of both the Italians, draped in Italian flags, reached Rome late on Tuesday, with the Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi receiving them at the Rome airport. The DRC's interior ministry on Monday blamed "members of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR)" for the killings. FDLR is a Rwandan Hutu rebel group that has plagued the region for over 25 years. However, the Rwandan rebel group denied the allegation and, instead blamed the Rwandan army and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) for the act in a statement.

Italy urges UN to probe killing of Italian envoy in DR Congo

Italian ambassador to DR Congo Luca Attanasio has been killed in an attack on UN convoy. The Italian President has confirmed the death of its ambassador to DR Congo and denounces the 'cowardly' attack.

Your Story: Italian ambassador to DR Congo dies in attack on UN convoy

Four people have died from Ebola in the latest outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Officials say people have been resisting measures to contain the disease, and hence, the number has increased.

Since the epidemic's resurgence this month, DR Congo has registered six Ebola cases. Of these, four people have lost their lives.

The Ebola virus is transmitted to people through infected animals. Human transmission is through bodily fluids with the main symptoms being fevers, vomiting, bleeding and diarrhoea.

One person died Friday and another on Saturday, while the two others died at the beginning of the month. Two patients are receiving care at an Ebola treatment centre in Katwa.

Officials have complained that the region's residents were not taking the new outbreak seriously enough.

As in past outbreaks, the population of the region refuses to believe in the existence of the Ebola disease and rejects measures aimed at checking the virus' spread, such as avoiding touching sick people or not washing the dead who are infected.

The tenth epidemic, which was declared on August 1 2018, was only eradicated on June 25 last year because of unrest caused by armed groups and the population's resistance to anti-Ebola measures.

With more than 2,200 deaths recorded, it is considered the most serious in the history of Ebola in the DRC since its appearance in 1976.

Ebola has also resurfaced in Guinea, where it has already killed five people.

Four people have died from Ebola in the latest outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Officials say people have been resisting measures to contain the disease, and hence, the number has increased.

Four people have died from Ebola in the latest outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Officials say people have been resisting measures to contain the disease, and hence, the number has increased. Since the epidemic's resurgence this month, DR Congo has registered six Ebola cases. Of these, four people have lost their lives. The Ebola virus is transmitted to people through infected animals. Human transmission is through bodily fluids with the main symptoms being fevers, vomiting, bleeding and diarrhoea. One person died Friday and another on Saturday, while the two others died at the beginning of the month. Two patients are receiving care at an Ebola treatment centre in Katwa. Officials have complained that the region's residents were not taking the new outbreak seriously enough. As in past outbreaks, the population of the region refuses to believe in the existence of the Ebola disease and rejects measures aimed at checking the virus' spread, such as avoiding touching sick people or not washing the dead who are infected. The tenth epidemic, which was declared on August 1 2018, was only eradicated on June 25 last year because of unrest caused by armed groups and the population's resistance to anti-Ebola measures. With more than 2,200 deaths recorded, it is considered the most serious in the history of Ebola in the DRC since its appearance in 1976. Ebola has also resurfaced in Guinea, where it has already killed five people.

Ebola toll hits four in DR Congo

Health workers in two African countries are working overtime to contain an Ebola outbreak. More than 10 cases are being reported out of Guinea and Congo. At least 7 people have died. Is this the beginning of a new epidemic? WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: An Ebola outbreak in Africa in the middle of a pandemic

The Democratic Republic of Congo has confirmed a third Ebola case this week in North Kivu province.

A new outbreak would be Congo's 12th since the virus was first discovered near the Ebola river in 1976.

The case was found in Butembo, a city of over 1 million people and the epicentre of a major outbreak of the disease that was declared over last June after nearly two years.

The Ebola virus causes severe vomiting and diarrhoea and is spread through contact with body fluids.

Congo's health ministry announced a resurgence of the disease on February 7, after a woman contracted Ebola and died. She was married to a survivor of the previous outbreak.

On Friday, 1,200 doses of Ebola vaccine and cold chain equipment arrived in Butembo, the health ministry and the World Health Organisation (WHO) said in a statement.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has confirmed a third Ebola case this week in North Kivu province. A new outbreak would be Congo's 12th since the virus was first discovered near the Ebola river in 1976.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has confirmed a third Ebola case this week in North Kivu province. A new outbreak would be Congo's 12th since the virus was first discovered near the Ebola river in 1976. The case was found in Butembo, a city of over 1 million people and the epicentre of a major outbreak of the disease that was declared over last June after nearly two years. The Ebola virus causes severe vomiting and diarrhoea and is spread through contact with body fluids. Congo's health ministry announced a resurgence of the disease on February 7, after a woman contracted Ebola and died. She was married to a survivor of the previous outbreak. On Friday, 1,200 doses of Ebola vaccine and cold chain equipment arrived in Butembo, the health ministry and the World Health Organisation (WHO) said in a statement.

DR Congo confirms third Ebola case in North Kivu province

A new case of the Ebola virus disease was found in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, almost three months after the outbreak ended. A woman admitted to a hospital with Ebola symptoms died two days later. Results of her test showed she had been infected with the Ebola virus, which is transmitted by wild animals.

DR Congo: One woman dies after being admitted with Ebola symptoms

Twenty-five people have been killed in a suspected militia attack in the eastern DR Congo region of Beni, where hundreds have died in violence since November, a local official said Wednesday, blaming the attack on the notorious ADF militia.

The army was chasing ADF fighters on Thursday when they found the bodies of 25 civilians, who had been "taken by surprise in their fields on New Year's Eve," Donat Kibuana, the administrator of the Beni territory, told AFP.

The ADF is one of more than 100 militias that plague the eastern provinces of the vast country and has been blamed for the deaths of hundreds of civilians over the past year. 
 
Brutal militia

The ADF, blamed for the deaths of more than a thousand civilians in Beni since October 2014, began as an Islamist-rooted rebel group in Uganda that opposed Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni.

It fell back into eastern Democratic Republic of Congo in 1995 during the Congo Wars and appears to have halted raids inside Uganda. Its recruits today are people of various nationalities.

UN experts estimated the ADF in 2018 to number around 450 fighters.

A report to the UN Security Council last week said the ADF seemed to follow an extreme Islamist ideology, but there is no information on whether the group had links with international jihadist groups. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Twenty-five people have been killed in a suspected militia attack in the eastern DR Congo region of Beni, where hundreds have died in violence since November, a local official said Wednesday, blaming the attack on the notorious ADF militia.

Twenty-five people have been killed in a suspected militia attack in the eastern DR Congo region of Beni, where hundreds have died in violence since November, a local official said Wednesday, blaming the attack on the notorious ADF militia. The army was chasing ADF fighters on Thursday when they found the bodies of 25 civilians, who had been "taken by surprise in their fields on New Year's Eve," Donat Kibuana, the administrator of the Beni territory, told AFP. The ADF is one of more than 100 militias that plague the eastern provinces of the vast country and has been blamed for the deaths of hundreds of civilians over the past year. Brutal militia The ADF, blamed for the deaths of more than a thousand civilians in Beni since October 2014, began as an Islamist-rooted rebel group in Uganda that opposed Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. It fell back into eastern Democratic Republic of Congo in 1995 during the Congo Wars and appears to have halted raids inside Uganda. Its recruits today are people of various nationalities. UN experts estimated the ADF in 2018 to number around 450 fighters. A report to the UN Security Council last week said the ADF seemed to follow an extreme Islamist ideology, but there is no information on whether the group had links with international jihadist groups. (With inputs from agencies)

25 civilians killed in attacks in eastern DR Congo, ADF militia blamed: Officials

MPs turn over tables and throw chairs in parliament amid a political crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It came a day after President Felix Tshisekedi announced the end of the governing coalition, which was formed in January last year with the parliamentary majority.

Violence in DR Congo Parliament as political crisis grows

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