African Union mediators arrive in Goma for M23 talks

A delegation of African Union mediators arrived in Goma, a provincial capital in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to engage in direct talks with leaders of the M23 armed group. The mission, composed of former heads of state, represents a significant attempt by the African Union to facilitate a political solution to the ongoing conflict in the eastern region.

The delegation included former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, former Botswanan President Mokgweetsi Masisi, and former Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde. They were received by political leaders of the Congo River Alliance (AFC/M23), including Corneille Nangaa. The discussions focused on security developments and potential political exits from the conflict.

This visit follows previous international peace efforts, including accords brokered by Qatar and the United States. Despite past ceasefire commitments, fighting has persisted in the mineral-rich North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. The mediators also scheduled meetings with representatives from the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO).