In a significant development toward peace, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel group have reached a mutual agreement to implement an immediate ceasefire. This breakthrough emerged from peace negotiations currently underway in Doha, Qatar, under the mediation of Qatari President Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

M23’s political spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, released a statement on Wednesday highlighting that both sides have committed to key principles intended to de-escalate the long-standing conflict. These include a ceasefire with no delay, a firm rejection of hate speech and threats, and a joint pledge to tackle the core causes of unrest in eastern DRC.

The agreement also encourages support from the Congolese population, including faith leaders and media outlets, to help promote a message of unity and reconciliation. On Thursday, the Congolese government issued its own confirmation, with delegation leader Papy Mbuyi Kanguvu signing the official statement.

For the first time since renewed fighting began in 2022, the DRC government’s statement omitted labeling the M23 as a terrorist group allegedly backed by Rwanda a notable shift in tone. Government spokesperson Patrick Katembwe Muyaya told journalists that the dialogue has shown encouraging signs of progress.

Despite the ceasefire announcement, the situation on the ground remains volatile. Fierce clashes were reported just days ago between M23 fighters and Congolese forces, particularly around Mikumbi and Miba villages, near Kibati in North Kivu’s Walikale territory.

M23 continues to maintain control over large portions of North and South Kivu, including the key cities of Goma and Bukavu, as well as Goma International Airport and Kavumu Airport. The rebel movement, led by Bertrand Bisimwa and Emmanuel Sultan Makenga, insists its mission is to combat corruption, discrimination, and exclusion within the Congolese government a stance it has held since hostilities reignited.

Although this ceasefire agreement marks a significant milestone, questions remain about how long-lasting peace can be achieved as both sides remain armed and entrenched in their positions.