The Vice Prime Minister, Minister of National Defense and Veterans Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita, recently addressed the 34th Council of Ministers meeting held on Friday, March 7, 2025, at the African Union Headquarters. During this meeting, he presented the current status of operations in areas affected by the Rwandan aggression war through the M23 rebellion. In his briefing, Minister Guy Kabombo reassured the council that the Armed Forces of the DRC are effectively holding their ground and preventing any advancement by the Rwandan-supported M23 rebellion.
Maintaining a strong stance in the face of numerous attempts by Rwandan aggressors to occupy Lubero, Butembo, and Beni in the Northern front, the Congolese Armed Forces continue to demonstrate resilience and determination. The Minister highlighted the successful containment efforts in the Southern front and the South Kivu province, where the military forces are actively working to thwart the rebel movement aligned with Kigali.
Despite facing challenges and ongoing violence, the coalition of M23-AFC-RDF has not made significant progress in advancing or capturing new positions against the Armed Forces of the DRC. The determination of the Congolese military to contain these criminal activities within the Walikale territory is evident. The atrocities committed by the RDF/M23, including organized assassinations, injuries to military personnel and civilians, and the continuous violence against innocent populations, have been a cause for concern. The FARDC remains steadfast in their position in the Uvira territory in the South Kivu region.
In addition to the operations in the North and South fronts, the security situation in the Ituri province and the Grand Katanga region was also addressed during the council meeting. The successful recovery of Nyamamba and three other villages in the Djugu territory from the armed group Zaïre by the Congolese Armed Forces in Ituri signifies a positive development. The relentless operation Usalama against the Bakata Katanga group in the Grand Katanga region, with reinforced control measures to counter enemy infiltrations, showcases the commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the area.
Continuing their efforts to eliminate insurgent threats, the Congolese Armed Forces have been actively targeting and neutralizing the bases and pockets of resistance of the Mobondo rebels in the Western region. The successful neutralization of several insurgents and the recovery of weapons have been significant achievements in this ongoing operation.
Despite diplomatic initiatives being pursued, the conflict between the FARDC and the M23/AFC rebels persists in the North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. The slow progress in diplomatic negotiations has allowed the M23 rebels, along with 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan soldiers, to capture Goma and Bukavu, further intensifying the security and humanitarian crisis in the Eastern DRC.
Efforts to enforce international sanctions against Kigali have yet to yield the desired results on the ground in Kinshasa. During a meeting with ambassadors and diplomats accredited in the DRC, the Congolese Foreign Minister reiterated the call for additional sanctions against Kigali to compel them to engage in meaningful negotiations or dialogue.
In the midst of these complex and challenging circumstances, the dedication and resilience of the Congolese Armed Forces in upholding peace and security in the region remain unwavering. The ongoing conflict underscores the urgent need for continued diplomatic efforts and international support to bring about a lasting resolution to the crisis.