The Alliance Fleveuve Congo (AFC), which includes the M23 movement, announced that it has halted hostilities in order to address urgent humanitarian concerns. On the evening of Monday, February 3, 2025, the AFC/M23 alliance issued a statement declaring that fighting would cease starting February 4, 2025.
According to the statement, the decision to suspend combat operations is driven by the need to focus on immediate challenges related to humanitarian aid for civilians displaced by the fighting. The AFC also clarified that its forces have no plans to capture the city of Bukavu in South Kivu or other territories, emphasizing its commitment to protecting both local populations and its own bases.
The statement further urged the RDC’s armed forces (FARDc) and their allies to refrain from engaging in looting, which undermines the safety of civilians—a reference was made to recent incidents at Kavumu Airport, where government troops have been reported to commit such acts. Additionally, the AFC called for the withdrawal of SADC troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo, arguing that their presence has not contributed to the country’s security.
Meanwhile, clashes between AFC forces and government troops have continued in the Kalehe territory of South Kivu. Reports from the conflict zone indicate that the AFC has liberated several areas in the region and is advancing toward Bukavu.
