ICRC Ready to Support Transfer of Over 5,000 Released FARDC Soldiers to Kinshasa

Eastern DRC, March 9, 2026 - The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has announced its readiness to facilitate the transfer of more than 5,000 Congolese soldiers released by the AFC/M23 rebellion in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

The soldiers, members of the FARDC (Armed Forces of the DRC), were handed over on March 2 at the Rumangabo military camp in Rutshuru Territory, according to a statement issued by the AFC/M23. The group indicated that the troops, captured on various frontlines, would be transferred to Kinshasa under ICRC supervision.

“The AFC/M23 informs the public that it has handed over more than 5,000 FARDC members to the ICRC. They will be repatriated to Kinshasa under its supervision,” the statement said.

Responding to the announcement, François Moreillon, head of the ICRC delegation in Kinshasa, confirmed the organization’s position. “As a neutral intermediary, the ICRC stands ready to assist with such an operation, with the agreement of all parties,” he stated.

This large-scale prisoner transfer forms part of confidence-building measures agreed upon within the Doha mediation process, aimed at easing tensions between Kinshasa and the rebellion. The AFC/M23 says the release reflects its commitment to international humanitarian law and efforts to de-escalate the conflict.

The ICRC has previously played a similar role. In May 2025, it facilitated the transfer of more than 1,300 disarmed soldiers from Goma to Kinshasa.

However, despite this development, tensions remain high. The AFC/M23, often described as Rwandan-backed rebels, accuses the government of Kinshasa of refusing to release detained fighters, including individuals allegedly arrested “simply because of their appearance.”

The group further alleges ongoing ceasefire violations, claiming that government forces continue military operations targeting civilian populations and property, accusations that risk undermining fragile peace efforts in eastern DRC.

While the planned transfer could mark a significant step toward de-escalation, its success will depend on cooperation between all parties and sustained commitment to the broader peace process.