Integration of AFC/M23 into DR Congo Army to Be Discussed

The integration of AFC/M23 fighters into the Democratic Republic of Congo’s national army will feature prominently in peace talks taking place in Doha, Qatar, a senior United States official has said.

Sarah Troutman, the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, said the issue remains central to efforts to end the conflict in eastern DR Congo.

She made the remarks on Thursday, January 22, during testimony before the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee. The hearing focused on advancing peace between Rwanda and DR Congo under the Washington Accords.

Doha talks to address rebel reintegration

Troutman said negotiators in Doha will directly address how AFC/M23 fighters could join the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC).

“This is a critical element of the Doha track,” she said. “The parties will discuss it further during negotiations.”

She added that the United States fully supports Qatar’s mediation efforts. She also said Washington will continue providing technical support throughout the process.

The AFC/M23 group consists of Congolese fighters who have opposed the government for decades. The group cites poor governance, ethnic violence and political exclusion as key grievances.

These concerns mainly affect Congolese Tutsi communities. US officials say armed groups such as the FDLR have targeted these communities using ethnic ideology. The FDLR includes remnants of perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

Lawmakers stress need for a clear plan

Ronny Jackson told the hearing that peace efforts require a structured reintegration plan.

“I don’t believe they will simply lay down weapons and return to farming,” Jackson said.

He urged DR Congo to take responsibility for absorbing Congolese M23 fighters into national security institutions.

“The country must create a clear plan for reintegration,” he added.

Progress and limits of the Doha process

The Doha peace process focuses on direct talks between the Congolese government and AFC/M23. The talks aim to address root causes and support a lasting solution.

In April last year, Doha hosted the first direct talks since fighting resumed in late 2021.

The discussions produced several agreements, including a ceasefire and the July 19 Declaration of Principles. However, fighting continues in parts of eastern DR Congo.

Regional security and economic interests

Jackson said long-term peace depends on both security and economic stability.

“You cannot attract investment without physical security,” he said. “Businesses avoid unstable regions.”

He pointed to the Regional Economic Integration Framework under the Washington Accords. The framework promotes shared economic interests to reduce conflict.

Jackson suggested that neighbouring countries could manage different parts of the critical minerals supply chain from eastern DR Congo.

He stressed that the resources belong to DR Congo. However, he said shared benefits could encourage cooperation.

He also called for the inclusion of Burundi and Uganda in regional agreements.

“If peace benefits everyone financially, all parties will work to protect it,” he said.

Finally, Jackson said mining revenues must improve daily life for Congolese citizens.

“These resources must benefit the people,” he said. “They must see real improvements in their lives.”