DR Congo, AFC/M23 Agree on Roadmap for Doha Peace Talks

The Democratic Republic of Congo and the AFC/M23 have agreed on a roadmap to guide the next phase of peace negotiations under the Doha framework, offering a fresh diplomatic push after months of stalled talks and renewed fighting in eastern Congo.

The agreement was reached during negotiations held in Switzerland from August 17 to 21 and is intended to establish the successive stages and timetable for the peace process.

According to a joint statement issued by the Swiss government, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to negotiations aimed at reaching a comprehensive peace agreement and resolving the conflict through implementation of the Doha framework.

Ceasefire Monitoring Takes Centre Stage

A key element of the agreement is the adoption of a standardised system for reporting alleged ceasefire violations.

The measure is intended to improve transparency and rebuild confidence between the parties amid repeated accusations of breaches of previous ceasefire commitments.

The first ceasefire verification mission under the MCVE+ mechanism is scheduled to take place in Minembwe, South Kivu province.

The parties also agreed to establish a mechanism for assessing progress and identifying challenges in implementing commitments made under the Doha framework.

Discussions further focused on strengthening the MCVE+ mechanism, including establishing its secretariat and preparing for its first field verification mission.

US Welcomes Diplomatic Progress

The United States has welcomed the latest developments, describing the Swiss meetings as progress in the Doha peace process.

Massad Boulos, a senior adviser to US President Donald Trump for Arab and Middle Eastern affairs and senior adviser for Africa at the State Department, said he was encouraged by the outcome of the talks.

“I welcome the additional progress made during the meetings held in Switzerland from 17 to 21 August regarding the continuation of the Doha Framework Agreement,” Boulos said in a statement posted on X.

He reaffirmed Washington’s support for peace and stability in eastern Congo and the wider Great Lakes region.

Boulos also recognised the diplomatic contributions of Qatar, Togo, Switzerland, the African Union Commission and other partners supporting the negotiations.

Analysts Urge Caution

Despite the agreement, analysts have cautioned against viewing the roadmap as an immediate breakthrough.

Political analyst Christian Moleka said the strengthened ceasefire monitoring arrangements represented progress but noted that the negotiations remained at an early stage.

He pointed out that ceasefire commitments form only part of the first protocol under the Doha framework, while six other protocols remain to be signed.

Moleka said the pace of negotiations demonstrated the significant challenges still facing the parties as they seek a comprehensive settlement.

He also argued that both sides continue to defend their interests while facing pressure from mediators, leaving open the possibility of renewed military confrontation.

Long Road Ahead

The latest agreement comes after months of diplomatic deadlock, continued violence and accusations of ceasefire violations in eastern Congo.

The conflict has displaced large numbers of people and contributed to instability across the wider Great Lakes region, increasing pressure on regional and international mediators to find a lasting political solution.

The adoption of a formal roadmap provides a clearer structure for the next stage of negotiations. However, its success will depend largely on whether the parties adhere to the ceasefire, cooperate with verification mechanisms and make progress on the remaining protocols.

For now, the Swiss agreement offers a renewed opportunity for diplomacy, but sustained political commitment and effective implementation will be crucial if the Doha process is to deliver a lasting peace in eastern Congo.