DR Congo and AFC/M23 Agree Roadmap to Advance Doha Peace Process

Representatives of the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) have agreed on a roadmap setting out sequenced steps and timelines for negotiations under the Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement.

The agreement followed meetings held in Switzerland from August 17 to 21, 2026, involving the two Congolese parties alongside representatives of Qatar, the United States, Togo in its role as African Union mediator, the African Union Commission and Switzerland.

Progress and Challenges Reviewed

Participants assessed progress made under the Doha Process and reviewed challenges encountered in implementing existing obligations and commitments. They also discussed negotiations on the remaining protocols under the Doha Framework, which was signed in Doha on November 15, 2025.

Ceasefire Verification Mechanism Moves Forward

The parties welcomed continued progress in operationalising the Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism Plus, known as EJVM+. This includes the establishment of its Secretariat and a reconnaissance mission conducted on August 20 with logistical support from the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).

The reconnaissance mission was carried out ahead of the first EJVM+ ceasefire verification mission, scheduled for August 24 in Minembwe.

Standardised Reporting for Ceasefire Violations

The parties agreed on the importance of establishing a standardised method for reporting allegations of ceasefire violations. They also agreed to create a mechanism to review progress and address challenges related to the implementation of obligations and commitments under the Doha Framework.

Roadmap Sets Out Next Negotiation Steps

Following the review, participants developed a roadmap outlining sequenced steps and timelines for negotiations. The parties committed to showing flexibility and creativity while working within the existing structure of the Framework Agreement.

They also clarified that the order in which the remaining protocols are negotiated will not necessarily determine the order in which those protocols are implemented.

Commitment to Comprehensive Peace Reaffirmed

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continue negotiations aimed at achieving comprehensive peace and resolving the conflict through implementation of the Doha Framework Agreement. They also shared recommendations with the facilitation team on how to support constructive negotiations and advance implementation of commitments already undertaken.

Qatar and International Partners Thanked

Representatives of the DRC government and AFC/M23 expressed appreciation to Qatar, the United States, Togo as the African Union mediator, Switzerland and the African Union Commission for their continued support for efforts to advance peace and stability in eastern DRC and the wider Great Lakes region.

Doha Process Remains Central to Peace Efforts

The latest meetings mark another step in the Qatar-facilitated process aimed at translating the Doha Framework into practical measures on the ground. The planned ceasefire verification mission and the newly agreed negotiation roadmap are expected to provide the next tests of implementation.

Source: Qatar News Agency (QNA), joint statement issued August 22, 2026.