An African Union delegation has urged Rwanda-backed AFC/M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo to remain committed to peace efforts, as fighting continues despite months of regional and international mediation.
The delegation, comprising former Kenyan president Uhuru Kenyatta, former Ethiopian president Sahle-Work Zewde and former Botswana president Mokgweetsi Masisi, met AFC/M23 leaders on Monday, the African Union said in a statement on Wednesday.
The rebel alliance controls large parts of North and South Kivu provinces following a major offensive last year.
Congo’s government and AFC/M23 signed a declaration of principles in Doha in July 2025, pledging to work towards a permanent ceasefire and broader peace agreement.
Progress has remained limited, although the process has produced some confidence-building measures, including the release of detainees in August and the recent deployment of teams tasked with monitoring implementation of the ceasefire.
Fighting has nevertheless continued, with recent clashes concentrated in remote areas of South Kivu’s highlands and Masisi territory in North Kivu.
Separate diplomatic efforts involving Congo and Rwanda, led by the United States and the African Union, have also so far failed to bring a significant reduction in violence on the ground.
The AU delegation called on all sides to honour commitments made in Doha, respect the ceasefire and cooperate fully with monitoring and verification mechanisms.
It also stressed the need to protect civilians and guarantee safe access for humanitarian organisations operating in conflict-affected areas.
The delegation met Rwanda’s foreign minister on Tuesday and is expected to travel to Kinshasa for talks with the Congolese government.
