AFC/M23 Announces Withdrawal from Uvira in Support of Peace Process

The Alliance Fleuve Congo/March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) has announced a unilateral withdrawal of its forces from the city of Uvira, citing its commitment to ongoing peace efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

In a statement dated December 15, 2025, the movement said the decision follows progress made under the Doha Peace Process, including the signing of the Doha Framework Agreement on November 15, 2025. AFC/M23 said the withdrawal was carried out at the request of United States mediation, as a confidence-building measure aimed at giving peace negotiations the best chance of success.

Despite accusing the Congolese army (FARDC) and allied Wazalendo militias of continued provocations and abuses, the group said it chose to pursue de-escalation to help achieve a lasting solution to the conflict.

AFC/M23 called on guarantors of the peace process to put in place measures to secure Uvira, including demilitarization, protection of civilians and infrastructure, and neutral monitoring of the ceasefire.

The group also warned that it would not allow armed groups hostile to the governments of the DRC or Burundi to use areas under its control as rear bases, stressing its commitment to regional stability and good-neighborly relations.

The statement was signed by Corneille Nangaa Yobeluo, Coordinator of the Alliance Fleuve Congo.