Kinshasa: United States President Donald Trump has said that the long conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has come to an end. But on the ground the reality looks very different.
The M23 rebel group continues to gain strength and expand its control across North Kivu province. Instead of stepping back after recent peace deals signed between Congo and Rwanda, the rebels have increased recruitment, strengthened command structures and taken over new territories.
Reports from local officials and residents show that M23 has built a parallel administration with its own tax system, border officers and appointed local leaders. Schools, markets and security services now operate under rebel control in several towns.
The group also controls mines that produce valuable minerals such as coltan which is essential for smartphones and electric vehicles. Control over these mines gives M23 money to fund its operations and build long term authority in the region.
Although the peace deal was presented as a breakthrough, M23 was not included as a signatory and has not agreed to demobilize or hand over captured areas. Within hours of the agreement being announced, new clashes were reported between rebel forces and government troops.
President Felix Tshisekedi has accused Rwanda of continuing to support the rebels despite international pressure. Rwanda has rejected the accusations.
Experts warn that eastern Congo may face a lasting division if the situation continues. Some describe the region as a state within a state where the government has little or no control.
For thousands of civilians the uncertainty remains painful. Displacement camps are growing as more families flee violence and instability. Aid agencies say they are struggling to meet urgent needs for medicine, food and clean water.
Despite international efforts, peace in eastern Congo remains fragile and the M23’s growing power suggests the conflict is far from over.