The African Union has urged parties to the conflict in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo to respect ceasefire agreements and refrain from actions that could undermine peace efforts. This appeal follows talks held in the rebel-controlled city of Goma between AU mediators, representatives of the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement armed group, UN agencies, and humanitarian organizations. The discussions focused on the security situation, humanitarian conditions, and efforts to advance peace negotiations.
The conflict in DR Congo has seen significant escalation, with the AFC/M23 armed group capturing Goma and Bukavu, the respective capitals of North and South Kivu provinces, during a major offensive in early 2025. The group now controls large parts of both regions. The AU panel has called for strict respect for ceasefire commitments, full cooperation with verification mechanisms, and restraint from actions that could undermine the peace process.
The mediators have also urged the parties to continue negotiations under the Doha peace process and called for stronger protection of civilians, particularly women and girls, measures to prevent sexual violence, and accountability for abuses. They stressed the need for safe humanitarian access to affected communities and the protection of schools and essential services.
The appeal comes following the resumption of fighting in North Kivu province in September, with clashes reported between Congolese government forces and AFC/M23 rebels in the Masisi, Rutshuru, and Walikale territories. On September 20, the Congolese army accused the rebels of launching attacks on several fronts in violation of ceasefire agreements reached through the Doha and Washington peace processes.
The rebel group has also accused government-aligned forces of carrying out attacks. The country continues to struggle with an Ebola outbreak, which the health authorities said had passed its peak. However, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned that declining case numbers did not mean the disease was under control.
As of October 6, the country had recorded 8,728 confirmed cases and 4,205 deaths, with a fatality rate of 48.2%. The Africa CDC also noted that insecurity in affected areas continued to hamper surveillance and efforts to contain the virus.
The African Union's call for ceasefire compliance and civilian protection highlights the ongoing challenges in achieving peace and stability in DR Congo. The situation remains complex, with multiple parties involved and a significant humanitarian impact.
Key points
- The African Union urges parties to respect ceasefire agreements and protect civilians in DR Congo.
- The conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian challenges, including an ongoing Ebola outbreak.
- The African Union's appeal follows resumed fighting between government forces and rebels in North Kivu province.
