Photo : Goran Tomasevic, Reuters
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Goran Tomasevic, Reuters
IN BRIEF
By Anu Maria Joseph
Democratic Republic of Congo: M23 rebels agree to a three-day ceasefire ahead of polls
On 13 December, the March 23 (M23), a rebel group active in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, agreed to a three-day ceasefire brokered by the US. M23 spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, stated that they accepted the deal “since it is in line with the M23's existing signed ceasefire of 7 March 2023.” He added that the group would “not hesitate” to defend themselves and the civilian population that is under their control. The ceasefire comes ahead of the elections that are scheduled on 20 December. Authorities have commented that the elections cannot be held in the regions of Rutshuru and Masisi due to instability. (“M23 rebels welcome ceasefire ahead of DR Congo elections,” BBC, 13 December 2023)
Ethiopia: Severe drought kills 176 people
On 13 December, BBC Africa quoted Ethiopian authorities that at least 176 people were killed in the Tigray region due to drought-induced hunger. The Governor of the district of Emba Sieneti stated that nearly 45,000 people are facing severe hunger worsened by the conflict and drought. The previous week, Tigray’s interim administration announced a state of emergency after more than 200 people died from drought-related hunger. A failed four consecutive rainy season in the region has caused severe drought in the Horn of Africa region. (“Dozens more die of hunger in Ethiopia as drought worsens,” BBC, 13 December 2023)