Congo and M23 Rebels Ink Roadmap to End Eastern Conflict

Congo and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have taken a bold step toward peace, signing a landmark declaration of principles aimed at ending decades of conflict in eastern Congo. The Qatar-mediated deal, praised by the African Union as a “major milestone,” sets the stage for a final peace agreement by August 18. While tensions still linger, particularly over whether rebels will withdraw from occupied territories, the signing signals rare direct engagement between the warring parties. Rooted in post-genocide fallout and fueled by competition over Congo’s $24 trillion mineral wealth, the conflict has left millions dead and justice elusive. For now, hopes rest on this fragile ceasefire to break the cycle of violence and build toward lasting peace.

AP