The Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) will engage in direct peace talks next week with the M23 rebel group, supported by Rwanda, in an effort to address the ongoing conflict in the mineral-rich eastern region of the country.
Angola, which has been acting as a mediator, announced that negotiations will begin on March 18 in Luanda, the Angolan capital. The talks come after a series of territorial advances by the M23 rebels, including the capture of the key cities of Goma and Bukavu, which have heightened tensions and the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Angola’s President João Lourenço confirmed the announcement in a statement on Wednesday, noting that both parties, the DRC and M23, will enter into “direct peace negotiations” following mediation efforts. Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi visited Angola on Tuesday to discuss the potential for such talks. This marks a significant step in the search for a peaceful resolution, after multiple peace initiatives were previously cancelled, and the focus had shifted towards addressing Rwanda’s role in the conflict. Despite these setbacks, Tshisekedi’s spokesperson expressed hope for the success of the Angolan mediation in resolving the crisis.
The conflict in eastern Congo, which has caused over 7 million people to be displaced, involves numerous armed groups vying for control of the region, particularly near the Rwandan border. M23, one of the most prominent rebel factions, has been accused of atrocities, and their actions have sparked concern about further regional instability. The United Nations has launched a commission to investigate human rights violations by both sides, which include reports of killings and sexual violence. The peace talks are seen as a crucial step towards alleviating the devastating impact of this long-standing conflict.