In Goma, locals are celebrating the departure of the M23 rebels who occupied the city since late November.

SOUNDBITE: Coma Resident Kanyere Bisisa saying (Swahili):

"We thank God that they left. We are very thankful. There was a serious shortage of food and money, but now we are hopeful for the future."

Businesses are open a day after rebels left the city.

The government has also sent in hundreds of additional police officers to help stabilize Goma and to prevent looting.