As direct peace talks begin this week in Doha between the Congolese government and the M23 rebel group—widely believed to be backed by Rwanda—residents of eastern DRC are torn between cautious optimism and deep-rooted skepticism. Goma, the capital of North Kivu Province, has been under M23 rebel control since January 2025. The city’s streets are calm but tense, as civilians await the outcome of negotiations that could reshape the future of a region long marred by violence and displacement.
“Every time they meet, they promise peace and end up fighting again,” said Goma resident Ange Sango. “May God touch their hearts this time.” Others, like Léon Kiyonga, voiced cautious hope: “I believe they’ll find a solution, but both sides must genuinely seek peace.”
Millions have been displaced by the conflict, and the humanitarian situation remains critical. Displaced families are living in overcrowded camps, struggling with food insecurity, disease outbreaks, and limited access to medical care. “We live in fear every day,” said Louise Sabina, a displaced resident. “We barely sleep. We just want the war to end.” The March 23 Movement (M23), composed mainly of Congolese Tutsi rebels, re-emerged in late 2021 after years of dormancy. The group has demanded greater political representation and protection for Tutsi communities, accusing the government in Kinshasa of marginalization. President Félix Tshisekedi has consistently accused Rwanda of arming and supporting the rebels—a charge Kigali denies.
The talks in Doha represent the first official face-to-face negotiations between the two parties, following the collapse of previous peace efforts in Luanda and Nairobi. Analysts say the discreet and confidential nature of the current talks gives them a stronger chance of success. “There is cautious optimism this time,” said Hubert Masomeko, a regional conflict analyst. “The fact that both sides have agreed to meet directly—and not just through intermediaries—is a sign of potential progress. This could mark a real turning point.”
Despite a partial M23 withdrawal from the town of Walikale in early March, the group maintains a strong presence in key eastern cities, including Goma and Bukavu. Military clashes and civilian casualties continue to be reported across the region, especially in rural zones where government control is limited. The Doha negotiations are seen as critical to ending one of Africa’s most protracted and complex conflicts. But the path to lasting peace will require more than promises—it will need concrete action, mutual trust, and accountability for years of violence.
As the international community watches closely, the fate of millions in eastern Congo now hinges on what unfolds behind closed doors in Doha.
