Goma: The head of the UN peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo has engaged in discussions with rebels backed by Rwanda, focusing on the protection of civilians in territories under their control in the eastern region. According to Nam News Network, Bintou Keita, the UN Secretary-General's special representative, conveyed that the rebels expressed a desire for a peaceful solution to the crisis, which intensified in January following their seizure of the major city of Goma. Keita emphasized her approach of fostering a spirit of listening and exchange during the talks held in Goma on Friday. These discussions mark the most high-profile engagement since the rebel takeover of Goma, although they are not the first initiated by the UN. Earlier this year, the UN peacekeeping force, known as Monusco, was unable to prevent the rebel group from advancing and capturing significant territory from the Congolese army. M23 rebels also attacked some Monusco peacekeepers during their campaign. Since the b eginning of the year, the M23 has made significant advances in the mineral-rich eastern region, including the capture of Goma in January. This ongoing conflict has resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilians, with thousands losing their lives in recent months. The situation has led to the closure of airports in the cities of Goma and Kavumu, severely affecting livelihoods as many civil servants and workers have gone unpaid. On Friday, nearly 250 South African soldiers, who were part of a force sent by the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) to support the Congolese army, returned home as part of a phased withdrawal from the conflict zone. This decision followed the deaths of 20 Sadc soldiers during an M23 advance. At a meeting on Saturday, Monusco reported that its leader, Keita, met with a top Sadc commander, highlighting a mutual appreciation for the support and solidarity demonstrated during these challenging months.