A ceasefire monitoring mission has begun work in eastern Congo, marking the first field deployment under a monitoring system created through a Qatar-mediated peace agreement between the Congolese government and Rwandan-backed rebels.
The mission began Monday in Minembwe, South Kivu province, where fighting has intensified in recent weeks. Government forces and AFC/M23 rebels have repeatedly accused each other of violating the ceasefire.
The deployment represents another step forward in the Doha peace process, which has faced delays since talks began last year.
Monitors Arrive as Fighting Continues
The ceasefire monitors arrived in an area that has recently experienced renewed violence. AFC/M23 accused Congolese forces on Monday of shelling a village near Minembwe.
The rebels said the attack caused civilian casualties and forced residents to flee their homes. A spokesperson for Congo’s armed forces did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The latest mission aims to monitor compliance with the ceasefire and document potential violations. Its deployment could help both sides address accusations of renewed fighting while peace negotiations continue.
Congo and Rebels Signed Peace Deal
The Congolese government and AFC/M23 signed a peace agreement in November 2025. The deal established a framework for a broader peace agreement and created arrangements for monitoring the ceasefire.
AFC/M23 launched a rapid offensive in eastern Congo last year and captured the region’s two largest cities. The rebels now control large areas of eastern Congo.
The conflict has displaced civilians and increased regional tensions, particularly between Congo and neighbouring Rwanda.
Doha Talks Gain New Momentum
Representatives of the Congolese government and AFC/M23 met in Switzerland last week. The two sides agreed on a new roadmap for negotiations, raising hopes that the Doha peace process could regain momentum after months of stalled discussions.
The Qatar-led process is running alongside separate U.S.-mediated talks between Congo and Rwanda. Washington hopes those negotiations will also help create conditions for Western investment in eastern Congo’s mineral sector.
Earlier this month, Congolese authorities released 15 prisoners and handed them over to AFC/M23. The transfer marked the first known prisoner exchange or handover carried out under the peace agreement.
Peace Efforts Face Major Challenges
The deployment of ceasefire monitors provides a new test for the agreement. Continued fighting around Minembwe shows how difficult it will be to maintain the truce while both sides remain deeply distrustful of each other.
For now, the monitoring mission offers a practical mechanism to track developments on the ground. Its effectiveness will depend on whether both sides respect the ceasefire and continue participating in negotiations.
The latest steps suggest that diplomatic efforts are moving forward, but the continued presence of armed groups and fresh accusations of attacks remain major obstacles to lasting peace in eastern Congo.
