The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 rebel group signed a framework agreement in Doha on Saturday, marking a significant step toward ending the devastating conflict in eastern Congo.
The ceremony, held in Qatar’s capital, follows months of diplomatic mediation aimed at halting one of Africa’s most volatile and fast-escalating crises.
M23, which Congo says is backed by neighbouring Rwanda, seized the strategic city of Goma in January and has since expanded its control across large parts of North Kivu and South Kivu provinces.
Rwanda continues to deny any involvement. The renewed offensive has killed thousands of people this year and displaced hundreds of thousands more, raising fears of a broader regional war.
Qatar has facilitated several rounds of direct talks since April, largely focused on confidence-building measures and establishing conditions for more substantive negotiations.
In July, both parties agreed to a declaration of principles, though many core issues remained unresolved. A follow-up agreement in October outlined mechanisms to monitor a future ceasefire.
Saturday’s framework agreement lays the groundwork for a comprehensive peace deal, though details of implementation and security arrangements have yet to be finalized.
Diplomats say the accord represents the most meaningful progress in years toward a negotiated settlement, even as fighting continues to destabilize eastern Congo.
Further talks are expected in the coming weeks to address disarmament, reintegration of fighters, and the restoration of state authority in areas held by M23.
Source: Reuters
Written By Rodney Mbua
