In a statement released on Monday, M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka criticized the FARDC and its coalition forces for failing to withdraw their drones despite prior commitments.
Kanyuka stated that the move had delayed the withdrawal of the rebel fighters from the town.
“Contrary to what was stated in the press release of Sunday, March 23, 2025, the FARDC and its coalition forces have not withdrawn their attack drones from Walikale. This situation is delaying the repositioning of AFC/M23 forces in the area,” Kanyuka said.
He further emphasized that the continued presence of the drones constitutes a “major obstacle to compliance with the ceasefire” and warned that it could jeopardize ongoing peace initiatives.
The development comes just days after the AFC/M23 announced on Saturday its decision to withdraw from Walikale. According to Kanyuka, the withdrawal was a “strategic decision aimed at creating a favourable environment for political dialogue.”
M23 seized control of Walikale on March 19, 2025, including the vital Kigoma airstrip, after capturing nearby areas such as Ngora, Kisima, and Mubanda.
Despite the withdrawal decision, Kanyuka called on local authorities and residents to maintain security in the area. He issued a stern warning that M23 would reconsider its decision and retake the city if Congolese forces resumed attacks on civilians or M23 positions.
Belgium is said to have deployed troops, tanks, and drones to the DRC on March 17 in a mission to train and reinforce the Congolese army (FARDC), the Wazalendo militia, and the FDLR in their ongoing campaign against AFC/M23 rebels, who control vast territories in the country’s eastern region.
While the official line states that Belgian troops are in the DRC for training purposes, reports indicate that between 300 and 400 Belgian commandos could engage directly in combat alongside the Congolese forces, which have struggled to regain control of lost regions despite support from European mercenaries.
Belgian troops have established their base at Lwama Camp in Kindu, the capital of Maniema Province. From there, they are set to train Congolese military instructors from the 31st Brigade of the Rapid Reaction Units (URR), a force previously trained by Belgium between 2008 and 2017.
The European Union recently provided €20 million in funding to ‘equip and restore’ the brigade’s infrastructure, though Congolese media outlet Actualite deleted an article referencing the financial package on March 14, raising questions about the true allocation of these funds.
Adding to the intrigue, flight tracking data from Flightradar24 shows that a Belgian Air Force Dassault Falcon 7X departed Belgium on March 17, landing in Kinshasa before proceeding to Kindu on March 18.
The aircraft then returned to Kinshasa the same day and departed for Brussels on March 20. Notably, it made another trip to Africa shortly after, landing in Bujumbura, Burundi, on March 21 before returning to Belgium the following day. The purpose of the trips remains undisclosed but appears to corroborate the troop deployment arrangement between Belgium and DRC authorities.
Belgium’s increasing military involvement in the DRC comes against the backdrop of close ties between Kinshasa and Brussels.
Belgium has consistently backed the Congolese government within the EU, particularly by lobbying for sanctions against Rwanda over claims of supporting the AFC/M23 rebels. In protest, Rwanda, which has repeatedly denied the claims, [severed diplomatic ties with Belgium ->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-severs-ties-with-belgium-orders-diplomats-to-leave-within-48-hours] on March 17.
Analysts suggest that Belgium’s motivations extend beyond diplomatic support, with economic interests in DRC’s mineral wealth playing a significant role.
Moreover, Belgian politicians of Congolese descent, particularly from the Les Engagés party of Foreign Minister Maxime Prévost, have been actively pushing Kinshasa’s narrative within European institutions.
Despite presenting itself as a neutral mediator, Belgium’s latest actions raise concerns about its role in escalating the conflict. By reinforcing FARDC, which collaborates with the FDLR and Wazalendo militias—both accused of grave human rights violations—Brussels risks undermining regional peace efforts. The FDLR has been a major concern, with Rwanda accusing the group, formed by the perpetrators of the genocide against the Tutsi, of posing security threats and seeking regime change.
Many African leaders have advocated for dialogue as the only sustainable solution to the crisis, yet Belgium’s military involvement appears to contradict these calls.
Belgium was among the first Western nations to endorse Félix Tshisekedi’s contested victory in the 2023 DRC presidential elections, despite widespread allegations of electoral fraud. However, it has remained silent on Kinshasa’s governance failures, human rights abuses against Kinyarwanda-speaking communities, and reported plans by Tshisekedi to amend the Constitution to extend his rule.
As the conflict in eastern DRC intensifies, Belgium’s growing military footprint in the region could further complicate efforts to find a lasting resolution.
Observers warn that backing FARDC’s military approach rather than pushing for diplomatic engagement may not only escalate violence but could also backfire on Tshisekedi’s administration, prolonging instability in the region.
In a statement released by the Office of the Government Spokesperson on Sunday, Kigali expressed support for these developments, calling them steps towards fostering regional stability.
Rwanda reaffirmed its commitment to working with all parties to ensure adherence to peace agreements, particularly within the framework of the Joint East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit process.
“Rwanda is committed to working with all parties to ensure adherence to commitments, particularly in the context of the Joint EAC-SADC Summit process and other initiatives which pave the way towards a lasting political and security settlement for the region,” the statement reads.
The AFC/M23, which is part of the AFC rebel alliance, announced on Saturday that it would withdraw its forces, with spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka describing the move as a strategic decision aimed at creating a favourable environment for political dialogue.
M23 had captured the strategic town on March 19, along with the Kigoma airstrip, following its takeover of nearby areas, including Ngora, Kisima, and Mubanda.
Kanyuka urged local authorities and residents to ensure security in the aftermath of the group’s departure but warned that if Congolese forces resumed attacks on civilians or M23 positions, the group would reconsider its decision and retake the city.
The latest de-escalation efforts come amid diplomatic mediation led by Qatar. On March 18 the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, hosted Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame and DRC’s President Félix Tshisekedi for a high-level meeting aimed at resolving tensions in eastern DRC.
A joint statement released by Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that the talks acknowledged progress made in the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes, as well as commitments outlined during the EAC-SADC Summit in Dar es Salaam on February 8.
The statement stressed the leaders’ agreement on the necessity of ceasing hostilities without further delay and their commitment to continued discussions to build a foundation for lasting peace.
AFC/M23 asserts that it is fighting against poor governance and decades of ethnic persecution targeting Congolese Tutsis and other Kinyarwanda-speaking communities in the east.
Its latest offensive has led to the capture of Goma and Bukavu in recent months, prompting global calls for a political solution to the conflict in the eastern region, following heavy losses suffered by the Congolese army and its coalition forces, including SADC troops, the Burundian army, FDLR, and Wazalendo militia groups.
The heavily armed Lendu militants, fighting under the Cooperative for Development of the Congo (CODECO), launched a series of attacks on a Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) battle group on 18 and 19 March 2025. The fighters attempted to overrun the Ugandan troops in early morning raids but were repelled each time, suffering heavy casualties.
According to UPDF, 31 CODECO militias were killed in action on Wednesday, while another 211 died in Thursday’s counteroffensive.
The Ugandan army lost one soldier, and four others sustained injuries. The wounded soldiers were evacuated to Uganda for medical treatment and are expected to recover.
The UPDF was deployed in the region weeks ago as part of ‘Operation Shujaa’, a joint military campaign with the Congolese army (FARDC) aimed at preventing remnants of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) from infiltrating the area.
Security officials say CODECO recently formed an alliance with ADF, intensifying its attacks on Congolese communities, particularly the Hema ethnic group in Ituri.
The group’s brutal raids have left hundreds of civilians dead, including women and children, while entire villages have been torched and looted. The arrival of UPDF forces in Fataki, as well as the nearby towns of Bunia and Mahagi, has been seen as a relief by local communities that have endured relentless attacks by Lendu militias and their allies.
Additionally, Ugandan troops are expected to help curb the growing refugee crisis, as hundreds of Congolese civilians have been crossing into Uganda in search of safety due to the ongoing violence.
According to Icelandic media, Thórsdóttir admitted to having a child with a 15-year-old boy when she was 22, more than three decades ago.
Thórsdóttir shared that she met the teenager while working as a counsellor for a religious group. At the time, she was 22, and the boy, who was 16, became the father of her child when she was 23, according to reports by Iceland’s public broadcaster, RUV.
Although the age of consent in Iceland is 15, the law prohibits adults in positions of authority—such as educators—from engaging in sexual relationships with minors under the age of 18. Those found guilty can face up to 12 years in prison.
The father of the child stated that he never viewed himself as a victim, noting he was in a difficult personal situation at the time and turned to the church group for support. The relationship remained secret, but the father was present during the birth of their child.
Initially, he had access to the child, but this was nearly entirely cut off before the child turned one. However, he was required by law to pay child support for 18 years.
The young father sought legal help from the Ministry of Justice and the church’s family service in an effort to maintain contact with his child, but Thórsdóttir reportedly denied him visitation rights.
Following the report from RUV, Thórsdóttir announced her resignation as Minister for Children and Education. However, she will continue her role as a member of parliament for the People’s Party.
Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir confirmed that Thórsdóttir had made the decision to resign after discussing the matter with the country’s three party leaders. Frostadóttir expressed that Thórsdóttir had taken responsibility swiftly and that the resignation was a personal decision.
While the minister denies the claims that she obstructed the father’s attempts to maintain contact with his son, her resignation will be confirmed by the President of Iceland at a meeting of the State Council on Sunday.
Thórsdóttir’s resignation has drawn significant attention in Iceland, though it remains to be seen whether the matter will further impact her political career.
Located in the southeast of Beijing, Tongzhou is often referred to as the eastern gateway to the Chinese capital. With its strategic location at the northern end of the Grand Canal and the easternmost point of Chang’an Avenue, this district has transformed into a hub of administration, culture, and cutting-edge technology.
At the center of Tongzhou’s transformation stands the Beijing Municipal Administrative Center (BMAC), proof of the city’s vision for sustainability and green development.
This contemporary complex represents Beijing’s attempts to decentralize and ease traffic in its historic center.
As I strolled through the administrative center, I was astounded by how well it integrated eco-friendly architecture and cutting-edge urban planning with its surroundings.
The exhibits within the building narrate the remarkable story of Beijing’s growth, showcasing decades of urban evolution while staying rooted in its cultural identity.
{{Drifting through history on the Grand Canal}}
Leaving the administrative center, I set off for a boat ride on the Grand Canal, a moment that turned out to be both educational and deeply immersive.
As I sat on the upper deck, a chill from the air bit through my t-shirt, but I hardly noticed. The guide’s narration transported me centuries back to when this marvel of engineering was constructed.
Built over 1,400 years ago, the Grand Canal is the longest and oldest canal in the world, stretching over 1,700 kilometers and connecting Beijing to Hangzhou.
This waterway, once a lifeline for trade and cultural exchange, passes through different municipalities and provinces, facilitating the movement of goods and people for generations.
Listening to its history while gliding over its waters was an amazing experience.
{{A library like no other}}
From history to innovation, my next stop was the Beijing Library, a structure that left me fascinated the moment I walked in. Its stunning architecture, which was designed to mimic a mountain, is an example of how science and nature can coexist.
Stepping inside, I was overwhelmed by the sheer scale of its collection. Home to over 8 million books, including works by President Xi Jinping, the library attracts 10,000 visitors on weekdays and twice that number on weekends.
What fascinated me the most was the technology embedded within the facility. From AI-powered book-sorting robots to immersive digital reading experiences, the library represents the future of learning.
If it weren’t for my tight schedule, I would have spent an entire day exploring its many wonders.
{{The innovation hub of tomorrow}}
Beyond its cultural and historical sites, Tongzhou is fast becoming a hub for technology and new energy enterprises. Companies like Colorfulead, Bor Ewin Technology Co Ltd and Wisson are leading the way in green innovations and robotics.
As my day in Tongzhou came to an end, I reflected on what makes this district so unique. It is a place where history, nature, and technology intertwine to create something extraordinary.
Hamas sources said the bombing targeted a gathering of displaced people, resulting in a number of casualties. The sources considered the targeting of al-Bardawil a new escalation in Israeli attacks on the movement’s leaders as well as civilians in the Gaza Strip.
Hamas mourned al-Bardawil, saying that he was a prominent political figure who had served as a member of the Palestinian Legislative Council for the Change and Reform Bloc and as one of the movement’s official spokespersons.
The Israeli army has not commented on this incident yet.
The killing comes amid growing international calls to de-escalate the situation and protect civilians from the repercussions of the conflict.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been receiving treatment for double pneumonia since February 14, is expected to return to his residence at Casa Santa Marta following the Angelus prayer at noon.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of the medical team overseeing the pope’s care, confirmed that Francis is in stable condition and will continue with a prescription to manage his recovery. While his pneumonia has been brought under control, the pope still requires a period of rest and physiotherapy, with doctors recommending a two-month convalescence.
The Vatican has reassured the faithful that Pope Francis will make his first public appearance on Sunday at the hospital’s balcony, where he will greet and bless the crowd before leaving for his residence. This will mark his return to the public eye after a month of absence, which has deeply moved Catholics worldwide.
Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni also emphasized that while Francis is improving, his recovery process will involve continued therapy.
“The pope’s voice is improving, but he still needs time,” said Dr. Luigi Carbone, vice director of the Vatican’s healthcare service. The pope’s health struggles have included multiple episodes where his life was reportedly at risk, leading to heightened concern among his followers.
During his hospitalization, the pope has remained active spiritually, with the Vatican releasing an audio message and a photograph of him praying in the hospital chapel. Despite his ongoing health challenges, Francis has remained in good spirits, frequently expressing his desire to return to his duties.
The pope’s discharge comes just days after Vatican officials reported that his condition was steadily improving. News of his recovery has been welcomed with joy by Catholics, with many gathering in prayer at St. Peter’s Square and in other locations worldwide, including in his home country of Argentina.
The DRC government had repeatedly stated that it would never negotiate with the rebel alliance, labelling it a terrorist group responsible for violent acts against Congolese citizens, opting instead to combat it through military force.
After M23 seized the city of Goma in late January, the heads of state from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) met in Tanzania on February 8, urging the DRC government to accept political dialogue.
While these resolutions had not yet been implemented, M23 captured Kavumu Airport in South Kivu Province and the city of Bukavu on February 16.
On March 11, João Lourenço, the President of Angola and Chairperson of the African Union, announced that the DRC government would begin talks with AFC/M23 representatives on March 18.
Two days after President Lourenço’s announcement, SADC leaders decided to withdraw their military forces, which had been assisting the DRC government and began organizing their phased withdrawal.
Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, the DRC’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, explained that the government initially saw no need to negotiate with AFC/M23 until Angola urged them to engage in talks.
“For a long time, we insisted that direct negotiations with M23 were unnecessary and not part of our approach, but the Angolan mediator initiated this process and invited all parties to come together for dialogue,” said Minister Kayikwamba.
She stated that multiple discussions had taken place, all emphasizing the need to cease hostilities and that the DRC government is ready to implement a ceasefire to alleviate civilian suffering.
“I also believe that across different regions of the DRC, the nature of the conflict is evolving in its intensity. What matters most to us and our people is to engage in direct talks with M23, followed by a ceasefire,” she added.
Minister Kayikwamba stressed that it would have been regrettable if the DRC government failed to recognize the shifting dynamics of the conflict in the eastern part of the country, especially given its responsibility to protect civilians.
The talks scheduled to take place in Angola on March 18, 2025, however, faced a setback after M23 withdrew in protest against last-minute sanctions imposed on its leaders on the eve of the negotiations.
The aircraft, a De Havilland Canada DHC-5 Buffalo with registration 5Y-RBA, was operated by Kenyan aviation company Trident Aviation Ltd.
According to a statement from the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA), the crash occurred at approximately 5:43 PM local time (14:43Z) in Ceel Xabaaloow, about 24 kilometres from Mogadishu. The aircraft had departed from Dhobley (HCDB) and was en route to Aden Abdulle International Airport (HCMM).
Preliminary reports indicate that all five crew members perished in the crash. Search and rescue teams were immediately deployed to the site, and investigations into the cause of the accident are underway.
“Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those affected. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” the Somali Civil Aviation Authority said in a statement released on Sunday.
Trident Aviation Ltd, a Kenyan airline, specialises in cargo and humanitarian flights across the region.
