DRC, M23 rebels to hold direct peace talks in Qatar

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have agreed to direct peace talks, set to take place on 9 April in Doha, Qatar.
This marks a significant step towards resolving one of Central Africa’s most enduring and violent conflicts, which has displaced hundreds of thousands of people and caused widespread destruction in the region. The talks, facilitated by Qatar, are expected to focus on key issues such as the withdrawal of M23 forces from occupied territories, the reintegration of rebel fighters, and broader security concerns in eastern DRC. These negotiations will be the first direct discussions between the two parties since M23’s rapid offensive, which captured the DRC’s two largest eastern cities earlier this year.
The conflict between the DRC and the M23 rebels, which has deep historical roots and is fueled by regional competition for mineral resources, has seen multiple mediation efforts, including the Nairobi and Luanda processes. However, these past initiatives struggled to make headway due to persistent clashes and mutual distrust. Qatar’s mediation, following a series of preliminary meetings, offers renewed hope for peace. While Rwanda denies supporting the M23 rebels, the conflict continues to strain relations between the DRC and its eastern neighbors. The outcome of the Doha talks could pave the way for a long-awaited resolution to the crisis.