DR Congo transfers first 15 prisoners to AFC/M23 under Doha peace deal

DRC peace deal AFC/M23 prisoner exchange Doha Framework ICRC

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has completed its first prisoner transfer to the AFC/M23 rebel group under the Doha Framework peace agreement. Facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), 15 detainees were moved from Beni in North Kivu, transited through Uganda, and handed over to rebel authorities in Rutshuru Territory on August 6-7, 2026.

The operation was conducted in compliance with Ebola prevention measures due to an ongoing outbreak in eastern DRC. The ICRC acted as a neutral intermediary to ensure the safe transport and handover of the individuals.

The United States and Qatar have both welcomed the move. US Special Adviser on Africa Massad Boulos described it as an "encouraging sign" of growing momentum toward lasting peace. Qatar, which mediates the process, called the operation an "important step" toward building trust between the government and the rebels.

Entities

AFC/M23 · Burundi · Democratic Republic of the Congo · International Committee of the Red Cross · M23 rebel group · Qatar · Tanzania · United States

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[○ 1 SOURCE] Qatar stated the release was an important step to strengthen trust between the parties. actualite.cd
[● 2 SOURCES] The operation complied with Ebola prevention measures. thevoicenewsmagazine.com · information.tv5monde.com
[● 6 SOURCES] The ICRC facilitated the transfer of 15 detainees. thevoicenewsmagazine.com · yabisonews.cd · journaldesnations.net · actualite.cd · information.tv5monde.com
[● 3 SOURCES] The detainees moved from Beni through Uganda to Rutshuru Territory. thevoicenewsmagazine.com · actualite.cd · information.tv5monde.com
[DISPUTED] The United States welcomed the transfer as a positive signal for peace. yabisonews.cd · journaldesnations.net · actualite.cd
[● 5 SOURCES] The exchange is part of the prisoner exchange mechanism under the Doha Framework. yabisonews.cd · journaldesnations.net · actualite.cd · information.tv5monde.com
[● 6 SOURCES] The DR Congo government handed 15 prisoners to the AFC/M23 rebels. thevoicenewsmagazine.com · yabisonews.cd · journaldesnations.net · actualite.cd · information.tv5monde.com
[● 4 SOURCES] The transfer took place between August 6 and August 7, 2026. journaldesnations.net · actualite.cd · information.tv5monde.com