DRC President Tshisekedi Signals Offensive to Retake Areas Controlled by AFC/M23

Uvira, South Kivu, January 23, 2026 - President Félix Tshisekedi Tshilombo of the Democratic Republic of Congo has announced plans to launch military operations aimed at regaining territories currently under the control of the AFC/M23 coalition, following their withdrawal from Uvira earlier this month. The announcement came via Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi, appointed by the DRC government for South Kivu Province, who returned to Uvira from exile in Burundi on January 23. Addressing residents, Governor Purusi said: “The Head of State instructed me to announce that we will continue the fight. After Uvira, operations will move to Kamanyola, and then we will continue until Bukavu, Goma, Bunagana-everywhere under rebel control.” The AFC/M23 coalition had previously withdrawn its fighters from Uvira on January 17, 2026, reportedly at the request of the United States, which promised to continue peace talks if the withdrawal was carried out. Following the pullout, DRC government forces and allied Wazalendo militias reentered Uvira on January 18. Many residents, particularly from the Banyamulenge community, had fled the city during the rebel occupation, seeking temporary refuge in areas still influenced by AFC/M23, including Kamanyola. The government’s statements indicate that military operations will continue to secure eastern DRC towns and assert control over strategic areas previously held by the rebellion. Conclusion In summary, the period from January 12 to 24, 2026, was marked by Rwanda’s dual focus on strengthening international partnerships and navigating the complex security landscape of the Great Lakes Region. The following key themes emerge from our report: Diplomatic and Economic Expansion: Rwanda actively broadened its global reach by signing four strategic agreements with Oman in technology and transport , discussing financial cooperation with Luxembourg , and reaffirming long-standing ties with Russia. Domestically, the launch of the "e-Bid" platform and new partnerships in the banking sector signaled a continued drive toward private sector modernization. Regional Security and Conflict Resolution: The report highlights the ongoing volatility in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). While Rwanda called for the fulfillment of the Washington Accords and the dismantling of the FDLR , experts and international observers like Russia expressed skepticism due to the DRC government's perceived failure to address root causes. The strategic withdrawal of AFC/M23 from Uvira and the subsequent entry of Wazalendo forces underscored the fragile nature of current peace efforts. Internal Governance and Social Challenges: On the domestic front, Rwanda showcased significant human rights progress to the UN, reporting a 97% implementation rate of previous recommendations. However, the report also notes pressing internal issues, including a surge in poaching at Volcanoes National Park and urgent calls from leadership to address food insecurity through agricultural research. Electoral Dynamics in Neighboring States: The successful monitoring of Uganda’s elections by an EAC mission led by Rwanda , and the confirmation of President Touadéra’s victory in the Central African Republic , reflect the broader regional trend of consolidating political leadership amidst varying degrees of opposition and controversy. Overall, the report portrays a nation making significant strides in technology, diplomacy, and governance, while remaining deeply entwined in the persistent security challenges of its neighboring territories. By Jeff Buleli