The AFC/M23 coalition, which opposes the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is set to be integrated into an international mechanism responsible for monitoring the ceasefire in the eastern part of the country.
This proposal stems from progress made in ongoing peace negotiations between the DRC government and AFC/M23. These talks are being mediated by Qatar, with support from the United States and the African Union, and include agreements on a ceasefire.
In the Great Lakes region, there already exists a joint border security monitoring mechanism known as the Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism. When clashes occur, this body conducts investigations to determine their causes.
Due to the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, there has been a proposal to restructure this mechanism so that it monitors not only cross-border security but also areas controlled by armed groups and coalitions.
On April 14, 2026, during the third day of peace talks held in Switzerland, both the DRC government and AFC/M23 agreed to reform the EJVM into an upgraded structure called EJVM+, which will also oversee the implementation of the ceasefire agreed upon by both sides.
Unlike the original EJVM, which included only representatives of member states, EJVM+ will incorporate three officers representing AFC/M23 and three representing the DRC government. It will also collaborate with the United Nations peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO.
The project to establish EJVM+ began last year but faced delays in implementation. Although both parties have now agreed to its creation, the official start date of its operations has not yet been determined.
While peace talks continue in Switzerland, attacks are still ongoing in areas controlled by M23 and its ally, MRDP-Twirwaneho, which operates in the Minembwe commune.
AFC/M23 spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, has repeatedly stated that although the DRC government participates in peace talks, its actions on the ground clearly indicate a preference for continued conflict.
AFC/M23 reaffirmed its commitment to the peace process but warned that if attacks persist, it will continue to defend civilians and respond militarily where necessary.
