Rwandan-backed rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo have declared a unilateral ceasefire in the eastern city of Goma for humanitarian reasons after capturing the key city. The ceasefire, announced by the M23 rebels, is set to begin on Tuesday, following calls for a safe corridor for aid and displaced people in the region. The rebels had gained control of Goma, a city known for its mineral wealth, during fierce fighting against Congolese forces.
The rebels stated that they have no intention of seizing another provincial capital, Bukavu, and reiterated their commitment to protecting civilians. The ceasefire announcement comes ahead of a joint summit by regional blocs in Africa and calls from the G7 foreign ministers for parties to return to negotiations.
The conflict in DRC, which has displaced hundreds of thousands of people, is rooted in a long-standing ethnic conflict. The M23 rebels claim to be defending ethnic Tutsis, while Rwanda accuses Hutus and former militias of persecuting Tutsis. Hutus who fled to DRC after the 1994 genocide in Rwanda have been linked to the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda militia group.
The rebels, who are backed by Rwanda, are considered one of the most powerful armed groups in eastern DRC and have been involved in previous conflicts in the region. The recent fighting in Goma has led to a humanitarian crisis, with thousands of people fleeing to Rwanda for safety. The DRC government has expressed openness to dialogue to resolve the conflict, insisting that any negotiations must be based on previous peace agreements.
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