Draft peace deal shared to end fighting between DRC and M23
The move follows a declaration of principles signed in Doha on July 19 by the DRC government and the M23, with the aim of signing a final peace deal by August 18, 2025
A draft peace agreement aimed at ending the clashes between the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) army and the Rwanda-backed M23 militia has been shared with both parties, a Qatari official involved in the mediation process said on Sunday.
The official explained that the draft was prepared as part of the ongoing Doha process, with Qatar set to host “an important round of negotiations” soon.
The move follows a declaration of principles signed in Doha on July 19 by the DRC government and the M23, with the aim of signing a final peace deal by August 18.
Although the original deadline was not met, the Qatari mediator said both sides had responded positively and showed a willingness to continue negotiations. “We recognize the challenges on the ground and hope they can be overcome promptly through dialogue and genuine commitment,” the official added.
The M23, which restarted fighting at the end of 2021 with support from Rwanda, has taken control of large areas in eastern DRC, causing a worsening humanitarian crisis. Earlier this year, the group captured key cities including Goma and Bukavu, even setting up its own local administrations in those areas.
The renewed fighting has displaced thousands of people and put immense pressure on local communities, humanitarian agencies, and the Congolese government. The Doha talks are seen as a critical opportunity to bring lasting peace to the region, restore state control, and allow humanitarian assistance to reach affected communities.
Officials hope the draft agreement will serve as a foundation for compromise, with both sides working toward a ceasefire, clear security arrangements, and a political solution to the crisis. While challenges remain, the positive response from both parties gives cautious optimism that dialogue can succeed.
As the situation remains tense on the ground, international observers are closely monitoring developments, hoping that the Doha process can finally bring an end to years of fighting that have destabilized eastern DRC and created a severe humanitarian emergency.
