The Governor of North Kivu Province, currently operating in exile in Beni (DR Congo), General-Major Évariste Somo Kakule, met with a delegation from the European Union (EU) to discuss the security situation in the region.
During the meeting with local authorities, citizens, and EU delegates, Governor Kakule stated that the security situation in North Kivu is deteriorating. He said that all territories in the province have been impacted by insecurity, with five currently under the control of the M23 rebel group and the remaining two plagued by terrorist activities.
He noted that the war has destroyed infrastructure, disrupted the economy, halted development projects, killed many civilians, and displaced thousands.
Governor Kakule also expressed concern to the EU delegation about the reported relocation of many Rwandans into M23-held areas—an act he described as a serious threat to the sovereignty of the Congolese state.
He warned that these movements violate the rights of Congolese citizens and risk altering the demographic composition of the regions occupied by M23 rebels.
EU Ambassador Nicolas Berlanga reaffirmed the EU’s support for Congo’s sovereignty and pledged continued assistance in security, humanitarian aid, and development. He added that the EU would expand humanitarian operations in areas not yet reached by international aid.
Berlanga also highlighted challenges caused by the closure of Goma Airport—captured by M23 in late January 2025—such as difficulty delivering aid, shortages of medicine, destruction of refugee camps, and looting of humanitarian supplies.
Governor Kakule said relocating the provincial capital to Beni has brought hope to the population. He confirmed that renovation works have started at Mavivi Airport.
General-Major Kakule reiterated his commitment to restoring peace in North Kivu and prioritizing reintegration programs for ex-combatants.
