Ceasefire Announced by M23 Rebels in Eastern Congo

Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo - The M23 militia has declared a ceasefire effective February 4, 2025, as fighting in the eastern region of the country has intensified in recent days. The announcement was made via a statement on social media, citing humanitarian reasons for the halt in hostilities.

In recent clashes, the M23 has successfully captured the city of Goma, leading to significant military engagements with the Congolese army. The rebel group stated that the ceasefire aims to alleviate the humanitarian crisis resulting from ongoing conflicts, although it remains uncertain whether the Congolese military will adhere to the truce.

In their statement, the M23 criticized the military for utilizing the airport near Bukavu as a base for airstrikes against areas they claim to have liberated. The M23 emphasized that they do not intend to seize Bukavu, despite fears from experts that such a move could be imminent. Concerns have been raised about a potential advance by M23 forces toward the Kavumu airport and the strategic city of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province.

The M23, which is believed to receive support from Rwanda, already controls significant territories in the North Kivu province, a region rich in valuable minerals such as coltan, gold, nickel, cobalt, and copper. The ongoing conflict has raised alarms about the humanitarian conditions within the region and the sustainability of peace efforts.

The situation remains fluid, and developments regarding the ceasefire and military actions in the area will be closely monitored as both local and international stakeholders engage in dialogues aimed at restoring stability to eastern Congo.