AFC/M23 Drone Attack on Kisangani Airport

February 8, 2026 - The drone attack carried out by the Rwandan-backed AFC/M23 rebellion against Kisangani International Airport and other military installations in the capital of Tshopo Province was discussed during the Council of Ministers meeting held on Friday, February 6, at the African Union City complex, chaired by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa. In his security briefing, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense and Veterans Affairs, Guy Kabombo, stated that the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) are maintaining their positions and ensuring the protection of civilians and property against attacks by the RDF-M23-AFC coalition, which have been systematically thwarted. “This is particularly true of the aerial attacks using kamikaze drones, primarily targeting Bangoka International Airport and other military installations in Kisangani. All the drones launched were destroyed before reaching their targets. Initial findings from the investigation, based on the analysis of recovered debris, indicate the likely country of manufacture, the type of drones used, and the explosive payload carried by each device. However, the investigation is ongoing and appropriate measures are being taken to address any new threats,” the meeting report states. Regarding South Kivu, the Deputy Prime Minister reported that loyalist forces repelled attacks by the RDF-M23-AFC coalition, regaining control of several villages. According to Guy Kabombo, the FARDC are continuing operations to defend national territory in the mid- and high-altitude plateaus of Fizi, Uvira, and Mwenga. The drone attack on Kisangani airport, claimed by the AFC/M23, also prompted a strong response from the African Union. Through the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the organization firmly condemned the attack on airport infrastructure in a major urban center. In a statement released on Friday, February 6, the African Union Commission emphasized that such an act, which seriously endangers civilians, constitutes a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law, particularly the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution, and warned against the spread of hostilities to cities far from the front lines. These incidents come months after the ratification of the Washington Accords between Kinshasa and Kigali, yet the situation on the ground remains alarming, marked by ongoing fighting between government forces and the Rwandan-backed AFC/M23 in North Kivu and South Kivu. Both sides continue to accuse each other of violating these agreements. The same applies to the Doha talks, held under the auspices of the Emir of Qatar, which have struggled to produce tangible results. These negotiations, aimed at addressing the root causes of the conflict, including the restoration of state authority and the reintegration of armed groups, recently resumed after a prolonged deadlock and resulted in the signing of the terms of reference for the ceasefire verification mechanism between the two parties. Conclusion In summary, the period from January 24 to February 8, 2026, reflects a Democratic Republic of Congo at a critical crossroads, defined by a complex interplay of diplomatic hope, persistent conflict, and strategic economic repositioning. While the government has made significant strides in securing international support-notably through a strategic realignment with Washington regarding critical minerals and the renewal of AGOA trade benefits-the security situation in the East remains dire. The humanitarian crisis continues to escalate, highlighted by the staggering rates of sexual violence and the displacement of thousands due to ongoing clashes with the Rwandan-backed AFC/M23 and ADF rebels. Moving forward, the restoration of peace and territorial integrity will depend on: Effective implementation of peace accords, such as the Washington and Doha agreements, which currently face significant stagnation. Strengthening national cohesion through inclusive dialogue and the consolidation of state authority in volatile regions like North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri. Securing economic sovereignty by ending the illegal plundering of mineral resources and finalizing key infrastructure like the Lobito Corridor and the Banana port. Ultimately, while the DRC is positioning itself as a central player in the global energy transition, the success of this vision remains tethered to its ability to resolve the persistent cycle of violence and exploitation in its eastern provinces. By Glad Musema Jeff Buleli