Technical Team evaluating EACRF winds up field visits
East African Community Technical Evaluation Team (TET) on Friday, 7 July 2023 visited the Burundi Contingent (BURCON) at Mubambiro and Mushake in Masisi territory, finalizing its field visits to contingents deployed under EACRF in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Deputy Sector Commander Lt Col Jean Claude Nshimirimana received the team led by Maj Gen Ignace Sibomana, at BURCON Sector Hqs in Mubambiro who briefed them on the current security situation, deployment in their Area of Operation, milestones achieved and future projections.
The TET was briefed on the contingent's efforts in facilitating the reopening of several schools within the Area of operation in addition to the critical role of protecting civilians, recovery of stolen livestock and opening up of the Sake-Kilolirwe-Kitchanga Main Supply Route.
The team later visited Kilolirwe Forward Operating Base, interacted with the local population and witnessed the free movement of people and goods along the Route.
Maj Gen Ignace Sibomana commended troops for their dedication to protecting the vulnerable population & prioritizing security through regular patrols within their Operations Area, urging them to closely work with locals towards creating a conducive environment for stability.
The team encouraged the contingent to establish measures towards de-escalating the ongoing clashes among Armed Groups with dominance patrols and Key Leader Engagement being key in sensitizing the locals.
Constituted to evaluate implementation of the EACRF mandate and the Concept of Operations in the Joint Operations Area, TET will meet other key actors in the peace and security process in Eastern DRC before compiling their report for submission to the EAC Secretary General.