On February 4, 2025, the Congo's M23 coalition, a political-military alliance, announced a humanitarian ceasefire in response to the ongoing crisis in the region. The declaration followed the M23's recent capture of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, which has a population of approximately two million.
The coalition emphasized that it does not intend to seize Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, despite recent advances in the area. The M23 reiterated its commitment to protecting civilians and its positions.
Additionally, the coalition condemned the ongoing military actions by the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC), specifically the use of military aircraft to bomb liberated areas. They called for the withdrawal of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) peacekeeping mission, arguing that its presence is no longer justified.
This announcement coincided with Kenyan President William Ruto's statement regarding an upcoming summit of East African Community (EAC) and SADC leaders in Tanzania, scheduled for February 8, aimed at addressing the escalating conflict.
According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), at least 900 fatalities have been reported due to clashes between the Congolese army and the M23 in and around Goma. The city, which hosts several international NGOs and UN agencies, is gradually seeing a resumption of economic activity, although access to clean drinking water remains a challenge.
The M23 previously occupied Goma for ten days in 2012 before international pressure forced their withdrawal. The group, primarily composed of Tutsis, has heightened tensions with Rwanda, as the Congolese government accuses Rwanda of supporting the M23. Conversely, both Rwanda and the M23 allege that the Congolese army collaborates with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a group formed by leaders of the 1994 genocide.
The M23's armed activities resumed in November 2021, leading to significant territorial advances, culminating in the recent control of Goma.