From Democratic Republic of Congo, CEOAFRICA.com gathered that residents of Goma, where the war between government troops and M23 rebels took place, are optimistic that the withdrawal of rebels from positions outside the city could bring an end to fighting in the area, although situation remain volatile as tensions with neighbouring Rwanda remain high.

Sources disclosed that activities have started in the area with the opening of the Virunga market, as  Women were seen folding colorful fabrics, and customers walking through rows of used blue jeans hanging from wooden posts.

Our source disclosed that some of the marketers expressed their happiness that the region has started to experience peace. A shopkeeper, Serges Chivai, said business is going well, at least compared to the last week. “Last week the atmosphere was really bad because bombs were being dropped, people were running away, people were afraid, that’s why the work really could not go well.” Chivai said.

Another shopowner, Delphine, hopes the withdrawal signals that the fighting would soon be over. "We want the government to finish the war, then we can get clients to buy our fabrics and we can live peacefully," she said.

Meanwhile, despite the fact that M23 rebels had pulled back, it was gathered that fighting continues deeper into the remaining territory where the rebel gained prominence, as the army has shown few signs of letting up.

The latest round of fighting also has disrupted Rwanda, after shells exploded across the border during fighting last week, killing at least one person. The incident prompted angry accusations between the two countries, with both saying the missiles were launched from the other’s territory.