DRC Forces Launch Attacks on AFC/M23 Positions Despite Ceasefire Agreement

Kigali, October 17, 2025 - The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government forces launched military operations against AFC/M23 coalition positions in North and South Kivu just hours after both parties signed a ceasefire agreement in Doha, Qatar, on October 14, 2025, the rebel group said.

AFC/M23 spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka stated on the morning of October 15, 2025, that the attacks involved FARDC-affiliated militias, including the Wazalendo coalition, targeting densely populated areas and key rebel positions.

“The Kinshasa government forces carried out major assaults on our positions in South and North Kivu, shortly after the signing of the Doha ceasefire agreement,” Kanyuka said.

Specific locations under attack included Kadasomwa and Lumbishi in Kalehe territory, South Kivu, and Kasake in Masisi territory, North Kivu.

The ceasefire agreement in Doha established a joint monitoring body composed of equal representatives from the DRC government and AFC/M23, with observers from the United States, Qatar, African Union, and the Great Lakes Region. The body is intended to oversee compliance and facilitate ongoing peace negotiations.

Kanyuka warned that the attacks not only endanger civilians but also threaten the progress of the peace process, potentially undermining efforts to reach a lasting agreement between the two sides.

Analysts say the situation highlights the fragility of ceasefires in eastern DRC, where ongoing clashes between government forces and rebel groups continue to challenge regional stability.

This report illustrates a marked contrast between Rwanda's domestic situation and the tense regional context in which the country operates. Internally, Rwanda is demonstrating sustained development momentum, marked by strategic investments in road infrastructure, health (with EU support for vaccine production), and local economic empowerment, particularly for women and SMEs.

However, this progress is overshadowed by persistent tensions with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite attempts at dialogue within the Washington and Doha peace processes, deep mistrust persists. Mutual accusations between Presidents Tshisekedi and Kagame, contradictions within the Congolese government itself, and, above all, the extremely volatile security situation in eastern DRC-with clashes involving the M23, the Congolese army, and various militias-continue to threaten regional stability.

In summary, while Rwanda is consolidating its economic and social development, its geopolitical environment remains precarious, with the resolution of the conflict in eastern DRC being the key to lasting peace in the Great Lakes region.