The eastern region of the DR Congo, rich in minerals and bordering Rwanda, has faced over three decades of armed conflict. The June peace agreement—praised by both the African Union and the United Nations—followed a series of failed ceasefires and was seen as a major diplomatic step toward stability.

Despite the peace framework, M23 and Rwandan forces seized Goma in January and Bukavu in February, triggering a humanitarian crisis. The Joint Monitoring Committee’s first meeting discussed progress in implementing the accord’s provisions, including securing a permanent ceasefire and facilitating the voluntary return of displaced persons.

Representatives acknowledged the fragility of the current truce and called for swift application of the agreement’s terms. Disagreements persist, particularly around the timeline and scope of M23’s withdrawal from captured territories.

Deadlines Set For Formal Peace Negotiations

Congo President Félix Tshisekedi, initially reluctant to engage directly with M23, eventually signed a declaration of principles in Doha, committing both parties to peaceful negotiations and voluntary refugee return. The declaration stipulates that formal negotiations should begin no later than August 8, with a final peace accord targeted for signing by August 17.

Kinshasa is also seeking U.S. security support and signed a preliminary deal in July with American firm Kobold Metals to exploit critical minerals like lithium, which are essential for electric vehicle batteries.

As the peace process unfolds, international observers remain cautious, noting that the agreed-upon deadlines are ambitious and that deep divisions remain over territorial control and security guarantees.