The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Alliance of Forces for Change (AFC/M23) have agreed to establish a ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism aimed at consolidating peace efforts in the country’s conflict-hit eastern region.
In a statement on Tuesday, US senior advisor for Arab and African affairs, Massad Boulos commended both parties for taking what he described as a critical step toward a comprehensive peace accord.
He said the new mechanism, agreed upon during talks in Doha, marks a significant milestone in advancing the implementation of the Washington Peace Agreement.
“The mechanism will ensure compliance through investigation and verification of any alleged violations, strengthen trust between parties, and reduce tensions on the ground,” Boulos said.
He praised the State of Qatar for its leadership in facilitating the negotiations, noting that the country’s diplomatic efforts have been instrumental in keeping both sides engaged in dialogue.
“We thank Qatar for its leadership in facilitating this process and look forward to supporting its full implementation to achieve lasting peace and stability in eastern DRC,” he added.
The ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism is expected to play a key role in building confidence between the DRC government and the AFC/M23, whose clashes have displaced thousands and disrupted livelihoods in eastern Congo.
It will also serve as a framework to ensure that both sides adhere to the commitments made under the Washington Peace Agreement, signed earlier this year.
Observers say the Doha agreement reflects renewed regional and international focus on restoring peace and stability in the mineral-rich region, where years of armed conflict have undermined development and humanitarian efforts.
With the establishment of the monitoring mechanism, attention now shifts to its operational rollout and the commitment of all parties to uphold the terms of the ceasefire.
The success of the process, Boulos said, will depend on transparency, cooperation, and continued international support to ensure that peace efforts translate into lasting stability for the people of eastern DRC.