For years, the international community has engaged in peacebuilding efforts in the eastern DRC. Yet, sustainable peace remains elusive.
One reason is the failure to acknowledge the stabilizing role played by the M23/AFC movement in areas under their control.
Since the resurgence of M23 prompted by Kinshasa’s failure to honor previous agreements, the situation in North and South Kivu has notably improved. Refugees and internally displaced persons are have returned to their homes, today no more refugee camps and IDP camps not because of international aid agencies, but largely due to the security established by M23.
In contrast, millions of dollars have been funneled into humanitarian NGOs with no impact on the ground. Instead of genuinely supporting those affected by war, many of these organizations have appeared to benefit from the ongoing instability.
Meanwhile, the Tshisekedi regime has opted for a militarized approach relying on foreign mercenaries, supporting genocidal militias such as the FDLR, and arming local groups like the Wazalendo. Despite this, M23 has managed to repel these forces, capture mercenaries and FDLR generals, and facilitate their return to Rwanda. They have also disarmed Wazalendo militia who posed serious threats, particularly to Congolese Tutsis.
FDLR, a militia group rooted in the 1994 Rwandan Genocide, continues to destabilize the region. Yet, it is M23, not MONUSCO or the Congolese government that has succeeded in neutralizing many of its leaders and rescuing Rwandans who were held hostage for decades, used as human shields.
The international community and Kinshasa have often prioritized access to the DRC’s vast mineral resources over the lives and dignity of the Congolese people. In contrast, M23 has made significant efforts to restore peace, protect civilians, and eliminate hate speech in areas under its control, particularly hate targeting the Congolese Tutsi community.
M23 is achieving what MONUSCO, with all its funding and resources, failed to accomplish: providing security and hope to a war-weary population.
If global actors are serious about achieving peace in eastern DRC, they must look beyond the dominant narratives and propaganda. They should recognize the undeniable progress made by M23 and reconsider their alignment with policies and regimes that continue to fuel conflict rather than resolve it.
True peace requires honest reflection, and that begins with acknowledging those who are making a real difference on the ground.
ellenkampire