• Major General lbrahim Michael Mhona (L), Representative of the Chief of Defense Forces of United Republic of Tanzania, and Major General Sultani Makenga, the military Coordinator of the Congolese Revolutionary Army/M23 (R), shake hands holding the ceasefire agreement during the signature ceremony in Goma, on March 28, 2025 (AFP)

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) government and the M23 rebel group have reached a landmark ceasefire agreement, announcing an immediate halt to fighting in the conflict-ridden east of the country.

The joint statement, released on national television and by M23’s spokesperson, comes after surprise negotiations mediated by Qatar.

Both parties declared their commitment to cease hostilities "throughout the duration of the talks and until their conclusion," marking a significant step toward a permanent resolution of the M23 conflict in eastern DRC.

The breakthrough follows discreet diplomatic efforts by Qatar, which hosted the talks that led to the announcement. The Congo peace talks initiative has drawn international attention, as previous attempts at a truce have repeatedly collapsed since 2021.

Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari welcomed the development, urging both sides to pursue "an agreement that aligns with the aspirations of the Congolese people for peace and development."

More than six ceasefires have been attempted and subsequently failed in the region over the past four years. The M23 group, which reignited its insurgency in 2021, has seized key cities including Goma and Bukavu, escalating the humanitarian and security crisis in eastern Congo.

However, the latest peace process has raised hopes of a more lasting solution, especially given the direct involvement of Qatar and the changing political dynamics in the region.

Doha talks were 'constructive'

The conflict has been further complicated by ongoing Rwanda-DRC tensions. UN experts and several Western governments have accused Rwanda of supporting M23 militarily—a charge Kigali denies. The Rwandan government insists on addressing security threats from Hutu militias operating in the DRC, whom they link to the 1994 genocide.

Despite these tensions, DRC President Felix Tshisekedi—who previously rejected any direct engagement with M23—has signaled a shift, participating in surprise meetings with Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Doha earlier this year. These talks laid the groundwork for the recent truce announcement.

A source familiar with the negotiations told AFP the Doha talks were "constructive", adding that both sides are preparing for a deeper round of discussions aimed at building a "comprehensive political settlement."

The next phase of negotiations is expected to resume in Doha in the coming weeks, the source noted.

Qatar has also deepened economic ties with both Rwanda and the DRC, committing over a billion dollars in investments, including in a major airport project near Kigali.

Read more: M23, Southern Africa bloc agree on troop withdrawal from Eastern DRC