Agreeing to peace in DR Congo is one step, but implementation is another

While a peace agreement was formalized Thursday in Washington to end the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), implementing it is expected to be highly complicated amid continuing intense clashes.

Diplomatic Agreement

The Washington accord consists of three key elements. The first focuses on halting hostilities through a ceasefire and a structured disarmament program. The second establishes a plan for regional economic collaboration. Signed by Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame under the supervision of U.S. President Donald Trump, it aims to promote cooperation between Kinshasa and Kigali in monitoring and regulating critical mineral supply chains, including coltan, cobalt, copper, and lithium, which are essential for high-tech industries.

The third element addresses agreements between the United States, DRC, and Rwanda regarding the extraction of these minerals, which are abundant in Congolese territory but largely exploited by Chinese companies. For instance, the DRC produced around 76% of the worlds cobalt last year, a key component in lithium-ion batteries. The U.S. sees significant economic potential in this agreement, with Trump noting it could generate substantial financial benefits.

Ongoing Conflict

Despite the signing, fighting continued in South Kivu province on Friday between the M23 rebel group, reportedly backed by Rwanda, and the Congolese army aided by pro-government militias. Local sources reported heavy gunfire around Kamanyola, a town under M23 control near the Rwanda and Burundi borders. Civilians remain trapped in their homes, highlighting the gap between signing agreements and achieving real peace. Around 60 civil society groups warned that the deal might remain only symbolic if immediate actions are not taken.

Historical Challenges

Eastern DRC has experienced violence for nearly three decades, escalating with the 2021 resurgence of M23. The armed group captured strategic towns like Goma and Bukavu, intensifying the crisis. Previous peace initiatives, including multiple ceasefires since 2021, have repeatedly failed to stop the fighting.

Complex Implementation

The Washington agreement is not a simple solution. The Congolese government conditions its implementation on the withdrawal of Rwandan forces, while Kigali demands the neutralization of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a rebel group composed of former Rwandan Hutu officials. Notably, M23 was not part of the Washington talks, with separate negotiations in Qatar and a prior roadmap established in November. A "permanent ceasefire" declaration was also signed in Doha in July, but violations by both sides have persisted.

Author: Natalie Monroe