A ceasefire agreement between M23 rebels and government forces in the mineral-rich eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has raised hopes for peace and security in the region.
The ceasefire, brokered by Angola and effective as of August 4th, comes after two and a half years of intense conflict that has displaced approximately 5.7 million people across North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri provinces.
While the specifics of the agreement and its duration remain undisclosed, the ceasefire has been met with widespread approval. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric expressed optimism that the ceasefire could lead to a reduction in tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, facilitating the safe return of internally displaced individuals.
France, Belgium, the European Union, and the United States have also welcomed the development.However, past truces have been short-lived, with observers predicting that clashes may persist.
Local residents are concerned that temporary halts in fighting provide armed groups with opportunities to regroup and reinforce their positions. Georges Katsongo, president of a civil society organization in North Kivu’s Lubero region, highlighted the tendency for conflict parties to violate agreements, citing ongoing strengthening of positions by the M23 and Rwandan army.
The violence in North Kivu is fueled by intricate rivalries rooted in ethnic, religious, and political divisions, with Rwanda and Uganda allegedly supporting rebel factions to expand their influence and access regional resources. Lingering historical animosities, including those stemming from the Rwandan genocide, contribute to mutual distrust and perpetuate the cycle of conflict.
Since 1996, an estimated six million lives have been lost in the region, making it one of the deadliest conflicts in global history.A UN Security Council report revealed the presence of 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan soldiers fighting alongside M23 rebels in North Kivu, with Kigali exerting significant control over the group’s operations.
French President Macron has called on Rwanda to cease support for DRC M23 rebels and withdraw its troops from the region, emphasizing the need for regional stability and lasting peace.
