Rwanda-backed rebels who took control of Goma, a crucial city in eastern Congo, have declared a unilateral ceasefire in the area for humanitarian purposes.

The M23 group made this announcement on Monday, responding to calls for a safe passage for aid and the needs of hundreds of thousands of displaced individuals.



Goma is situated in a region rich in mineral resources, yet it remains under rebel control.

There has been no immediate response from the Congolese government.

On Monday, U.N. spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric provided an update on the situation in Congo, expressing concern over rising health risks.

He noted that while some economic activities are resuming, schools and banks are still closed, and food shortages persist.

The coalition of rebel factions in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has announced a humanitarian ceasefire effective Tuesday.

In their statement, the group, which includes the M23 rebels backed by Rwanda, cited "humanitarian reasons" for this decision after making territorial gains in the region.

The U.N. reported that at least 900 individuals have died and 2,880 have been injured in the recent violence surrounding Goma, the largest city in eastern DR Congo, now under rebel control.

Source: Africanews