What is the reason behind the conflict in DR Congo?

The eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), rich in minerals, has faced persistent unrest for over three decades, tracing back to the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Numerous armed groups have battled the central government for control over the area's resources, drawing in neighboring countries and causing widespread devastation. In the 1990s, two major wars, often referred to as Africa's World Wars, led to millions of deaths.

Conflict intensified in early 2025 when the rebel group M23 launched a swift campaign across the eastern provinces. In response, leaders from Rwanda and DRC signed a US-brokered peace agreement, aiming to halt hostilities, though the outcome remains uncertain.

The M23 Offensive

M23 quickly captured key urban centers. Their first significant victory came in late January with the takeover of Goma, a major city in North Kivu with over a million residents. Positioned on the Rwandan border and Lake Kivu, Goma is a critical hub for trade and access to mineral-rich towns.

In February, the group also took control of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu. Clashes between M23, the Congolese army, and allied militias continue as the rebels aim to expand their territory. Thousands have been killed, and many more displaced. At one point, M23 even threatened Kinshasa, the nation's capital, located 2,600 km away.

Who Are the M23?

The M23 is primarily led by ethnic Tutsis, claiming to protect minority rights. They argue that previous peace agreements were not honored, taking their name from a 2009 deal with a former Tutsi-led rebel group. Formed in 2012, the M23 initially seized large areas, including Goma, but faced international condemnation and was eventually forced to withdraw. The fighters later joined the army under promises of minority protection, but resumed fighting in 2021, citing broken commitments.

Rwanda's Role

The US-brokered agreement was signed between Rwanda and DRC, not M23. Evidence suggests Rwanda has supported M23, with UN experts reporting thousands of Rwandan troops alongside the rebels and claims that the Rwandan army controls M23 operations. M23 leader Sultani Makenga is a Congolese Tutsi who formerly served in the Rwandan army.

Rwanda denies providing military or financial aid, asserting that its measures are defensive. The Washington peace deal complicates Rwanda's position, suggesting deeper involvement in the conflict.

Historical Context

The roots of the fighting trace back to the 1994 Rwandan genocide, where roughly 800,000 Tutsis were killed. Following the genocide, many Hutus fled to eastern DRC, escalating ethnic tensions. Rwanda's army invaded DRC twice, targeting perpetrators of the genocide and cooperating with Tutsi groups like the Banyamulenge. One Hutu faction, the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), remains active in eastern DRC, threatening Rwandan security. The peace deal addresses ending state support for the FDLR and reducing defensive actions by Rwanda.

Peace Agreement Details

The US-brokered deal seeks to prevent further conflict by requiring both nations to:

• Withdraw forces from each others territory
• Stop supporting armed groups and facilitate their disarmament and integration
• Refrain from acts of aggression

Critics note that the M23, the main armed faction, is not a signatory, and the agreement does not specify whether they will vacate captured territory. M23 is involved in separate negotiations with the Congolese government, mediated by Qatar. The deal also includes provisions for boosting trade and investment in mineral supply chains, potentially benefiting the US.

DRCs Mineral Wealth

DRCs mineral resources, such as gold and coltan used in electronics, are a central element of the conflict. UN reports accuse Rwanda of exploiting these resources through M23, with 120 tonnes of coltan reportedly sent to Rwanda every month. Rwanda denies these claims.

UN Peacekeeping Efforts

A UN mission, Monusco, has been present since 1999 with over 10,000 troops, though only the Force Intervention Brigade can engage offensively. The mission faced criticism for ineffectiveness, and regional forces from the Southern African Development Community, deployed in 2023, were unable to stop M23 advances and withdrew in 2024 after casualties.

Author: Maya Henderson