Congo Conflict: M23 Declares Ceasefire

The Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC/M23) has declared a ceasefire in eastern DRC, citing the worsening humanitarian crisis caused by ongoing military operations. However, the group has made it clear that it will not withdraw from Goma until its grievances are addressed.

In an official communiqué dated February 3, 2025, the group announced that the ceasefire would take effect on February 4. The statement strongly condemns the Congolese armed forces (FARDC) for using military aircraft to bomb civilian-populated areas, calling the attacks unacceptable.

The AFC/M23 reiterated that it has no intention of capturing Bukavu or other territories, emphasizing its commitment to protecting civilians. However, it stated that it will maintain its positions in Goma until the Congolese government addresses its demands. The group also called for the withdrawal of SAMIDRC troops, arguing that their mission is no longer justified.

The statement, signed by Lawrence Kanyuka, AFC/M23’s Communication Focal-Point, warns the public against fraudulent solicitations and misinformation allegedly spread by the Kinshasa regime.

Meanwhile, leaders from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are preparing for a joint summit in Dar es Salaam in the second week of February to discuss the escalating conflict. The meeting, confirmed by Kenyan President William Ruto, will bring together regional heads of state, including DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

The summit follows a recent SADC meeting, where leaders agreed on the need for a coordinated approach to address the crisis. The involvement of both regional blocs signals a growing commitment to finding a diplomatic solution, as tensions continue to rise in eastern DRC.

Despite these efforts, the situation remains highly volatile. The M23’s refusal to withdraw from Goma and continued clashes between FARDC, FDLR militias, foreign mercenaries, and Wazalendo rebels against Tutsi communities underscore the deep-rooted nature of the conflict.

Congo, however, has vowed to reclaim Goma, a city of around 3 million people. Kinshasa has accused Rwanda of sending troops to Goma to back M23.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame who has frequently denied claims of supporting the M23 on Monday reportedly told CNN he does not know if his country’s troops are in the east of the Congo, where fighting between the M23 armed group and Congolese soldiers has killed hundreds.

Observers will be watching closely to see whether the ceasefire holds and if regional leaders can broker a meaningful resolution to the ongoing crisis.