M23 rebels announce ceasefire in Goma for humanitarian aid

The M23 rebel group has announced a unilateral ceasefire in the eastern city of Goma.

The group, which is believed to be backed by Rwanda, declared the ceasefire on Monday, citing “humanitarian reasons” in response to the urgent needs of displaced individuals and the delivery of aid.

Goma, located in a mineral-rich region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has remained under rebel control despite being a strategic hub for both local and international interests. The ceasefire is seen as an attempt to allow for the safe passage of humanitarian assistance, with over 400,000 people displaced since the beginning of 2025 alone, according to the United Nations refugee agency.

The M23 rebels have been locked in conflict with Congolese forces in the region, and though there has been no immediate comment from the Congolese government, international organizations have voiced concerns over the escalating humanitarian situation. U.N. spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric expressed alarm over rising health risks, citing the closure of schools, banks, and ongoing food shortages in the area. While some economic activities have resumed, the situation remains dire for local populations.

In their official statement, the coalition of rebel groups, which includes the M23 faction, emphasized that they have no intentions of further expanding their territorial control. Despite previous statements suggesting a push for greater territorial gains, the group has vowed to maintain its current positions in the region. The M23’s announcement comes after their significant territorial advances, which have resulted in over 900 deaths and nearly 3,000 injuries, as reported by the United Nations.

The broader coalition, known as the Congo River Alliance, has accused the Congolese military of airstrikes targeting civilian areas under rebel control, resulting in additional casualties. The ongoing conflict has drawn condemnation from the G7 nations and the European Union, who have criticized the offensive as a violation of Congo’s sovereignty.

Humanitarian organizations are calling for increased pressure on Rwanda to withdraw support for the M23 rebels. Rwandan President Paul Kagame has remained evasive on the presence of Rwandan troops in the region, but he reaffirmed his stance on Rwanda’s interests in the DRC, emphasizing that any actions taken by Rwanda are for self-defense.

Meanwhile, the DR Congo’s communications minister, Patrick Muyaya, has called for international sanctions against Rwanda, describing the situation as unacceptable. “A strong decision must be taken, not only to condemn but to stop what Rwanda is doing,” Muyaya told Reuters, urging the international community to take action to preserve peace in the region.

The ceasefire announced by the M23 rebels is a rare glimmer of hope amidst the ongoing crisis, but with the conflict still raging and the humanitarian needs continuing to mount, the situation remains volatile and uncertain.

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