President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) convened a pivotal peace summit aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in the country’s eastern regions. This meeting comes in response to the persistent advances of the M23 rebel group, which has seized significant territories in both North and South Kivu provinces.
Announced on Thursday, January 23, 2025, by the Office of the President of the DRC, the high-level summit was attended by the Chief of the DRC Armed Forces, the Police Commissioner, Prime Minister Judith Sumunwa, the Deputy Prime Minister for Internal Security, and the Minister of Defense. Notably, the extraordinary meeting was held at the President’s official residence, underscoring its significance.
The discussions primarily focused on the ongoing warfare in North and South Kivu, as well as the escalating number of refugees fleeing the conflict. The M23 rebels have intensified their offensive, recently capturing the city of Sake and advancing towards Goma. Additionally, the group claimed responsibility for the assassination of North Kivu Governor, Major General Peter Cirumwami Nkuba, who was killed in Kasengezi.
In early January, the M23 also took control of Minova, a strategic city in Kalehe within South Kivu. These aggressive maneuvers have prompted international concern, leading countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom to advise their citizens to evacuate Goma due to deteriorating security conditions.
Looking ahead, President Tshisekedi is set to lead another high-level security council meeting on Friday. This upcoming session will be exclusively attended by government ministers, continuing the administration’s efforts to formulate a strategic response to the M23 threat and stabilize the region.
The President’s proactive leadership in these critical meetings highlights the DRC’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the eastern provinces, amidst escalating challenges posed by the M23 insurgency.
