The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has strongly condemned a reported drone strike that killed civilians in Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
In a press statement issued on March 12, 2026, the African Union expressed deep concern over the incident, which occurred in North Kivu province. The strike reportedly resulted in the death of civilians, including a humanitarian worker and left several others injured.
Youssouf described the attack as a serious violation of international humanitarian law, noting that civilians and humanitarian personnel must be protected at all times during armed conflicts.
He warned that attacks targeting civilians risk worsening an already fragile security situation in eastern DR Congo.
The African Union urged all parties involved in the conflict to exercise maximum restraint and avoid actions that could further escalate tensions in the region.
“The African Union Commission reiterates the imperative for all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid actions that could further escalate tensions, and ensure the protection of civilians and humanitarian actors operating in the region,” the statement said.
The commission emphasized that safeguarding humanitarian workers and civilians remains a critical obligation under international humanitarian law.
The AU also underscored the need to respect ongoing mediation efforts and ceasefire arrangements aimed at restoring stability in eastern DR Congo.
According to the statement, the continental body supports efforts to clarify the circumstances surrounding the drone strike through an impartial investigation.
“The Commission supports the need for clarification of the circumstances surrounding this incident through an impartial investigation,” the statement added.
Eastern DR Congo has faced prolonged insecurity driven by armed groups, displacement, and cross-border tensions, making peace efforts increasingly urgent.
The African Union reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the government of the DR Congo, regional partners, and the international community to address the crisis.
The commission said it remains dedicated to supporting a durable political solution that will de-escalate violence and promote lasting peace in the region.
Officials noted that cooperation between regional actors will be key in restoring stability and ensuring long-term security for communities affected by the conflict in eastern DR Congo.
