The East African Community Regional Force (EACRF) Commander Maj GenJeff Nyagah led a security team for a joint reconnaissance along the Sake-Kilolirwe Main Supply Route (MSR) in Masisi territory in preparations for the deployment of EACRF troops to the region.
The joint reconnaissance was done in areas of Busangara, Kingi, and Kabati towards Kilolirwe to facilitate immediate deployment of Burundi National Defence Forces (BNDF) under EACRF and verify withdrawal of M23 from the Western Front in compliance with the Communiqué from the Heads of State mini_summit held in Addis Ababa on 17 February 2023.
Nyagah reassured the local community of their safety urging them not to leave their homes.
He reiterated the mandate of the Regional Force and implored them to support the ongoing peace and stability efforts.
The deployment of BNDF Contingent in Sake, Kilolirwe, and Kitchanga MSR follows the re-posturing of troops recommended by the East African Community Chiefs of Defence Forces/Chiefs of Staff on 9th February 2023 to allow free movement of persons and goods.
It will further enhance the protection of civilians and monitor the systematic and orderly withdrawal of M23.
The delegation comprised Deputy Force Commander Brigadier Emmanuel Kaputa, staff officers from the Force Headquarters, the Burundi Contingent Commander, and troops from Kenya and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC).
The M23, which is waging its most sustained offensive since capturing swathes of territory in 2012-13, has been accused of flouting a ceasefire process and summarily executing civilians.
The unrest has spurred anti-Rwandan sentiment in Congo and local opposition to a U.N. peacekeeping mission.
