M23 Control Map 2026: Who Controls Eastern Congo

Conflict Location

Intelligence Summary

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HIGH

Severity

Insurgency

Type

0

Headlines (48h)

683h

Last Updated

Current Status

According to Reuters and AFP reports, M23 rebels continue to advance in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, with fighting ongoing in North Kivu province as of early 2025.

Situation 2026

Reuters reports M23 has captured several towns in North Kivu including Goma in early 2024–2025, advancing toward provincial capitals
AFP and DW cite FARDC (Democratic Republic of Congo Armed Forces) mounting counteroffensive operations, though sources indicate limited operational effectiveness
According to UN OCHA statements, the conflict has displaced over 6 million people, with humanitarian access severely restricted in M23-controlled areas
Al Jazeera and France 24 report FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda) also active in conflict zones, complicating military dynamics
Associated Press cites regional diplomatic efforts by Angola and other SADC members attempting to broker ceasefires, with limited success reported as of early 2025

Background

The DRC eastern conflict has persisted since 1998, with M23 (a primarily Tutsi rebel group) emerging as a major actor around 2012. According to UN estimates, the broader conflict has generated 6+ million casualties over its duration. M23 significantly escalated operations beginning in 2022, prompting renewed international concern per reports from BBC and AFP.

Humanitarian Impact

ICRC reports severe shortages of medical supplies and functioning healthcare facilities in conflict-affected areas, with cholera and malnutrition documented among displaced populations
UN agencies report approximately 26+ million people in DRC require humanitarian assistance, with North Kivu experiencing acute food insecurity per WFP statements
Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International document allegations of mass atrocities, though AFP notes verification challenges in active conflict zones

Outlook

Analysts cited by Reuters and DW suggest the conflict may persist absent major diplomatic breakthrough, with M23's military momentum potentially forcing negotiated settlement talks. Humanitarian conditions are likely to deteriorate further without sustained international aid access, per UN projections.

Key Actors

M23 (Mouvement du 23 Mars)FARDC (Armed Forces of the DRC)FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda)ICRC and UN agenciesAngola and SADC mediators

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Conflict Timeline

1994-04-07

Rwandan Genocide Origins

Rwandan genocide begins, displacing over 2 million people. Many genocidaires and Hutu militias flee to eastern DRC, establishing refugee camps.

1996-10-15

First Congo War Begins

Tutsi-led forces and regional allies invade eastern DRC to combat Hutu militias. FARDC largely collapses as Mobutu's regime falters.

2012-04-23

M23 Rebellion Emerges

M23 rebel group, composed primarily of Tutsi soldiers, launches armed rebellion in North Kivu province. Group demands integration of fighters into national army.

2012-11-20

M23 Captures Goma

M23 forces seize the provincial capital Goma after intense fighting. FARDC suffers major military defeat, losing control of strategic eastern hub.

2013-11-05

M23 Ceasefire Agreement

M23 agrees to ceasefire and disbands after international pressure and regional military intervention. Most fighters integrated into FARDC ranks.

2021-03-23

M23 Resurgence Confirmed

M23 reignites armed rebellion in North Kivu province, resuming attacks against FARDC positions. Conflict escalates with support from neighboring countries.

2022-11-27

M23 Captures Bunagana

M23 forces seize strategic town of Bunagana, advancing territorial control. FARDC struggles with coordination and inadequate military resources.

2023-12-15

Angola-Brokered Ceasefire

Angola mediates ceasefire agreement between DRC government and M23 rebels. Tensions remain high with limited compliance from both sides.

2024-02-01

Ongoing Violence Persists

Despite ceasefire agreements, sporadic fighting continues in North and South Kivu. Humanitarian crisis worsens with 6+ million displaced persons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a war in the DRC right now?

Yes — the DRC – Eastern Conflict is an active conflict currently rated HIGH severity by ConflictZone. According to Reuters and AFP reports, M23 rebels continue to advance in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, with fighting ongoing in North Kivu province as of early 2025.

Who is fighting in the DRC?

The main parties are FARDC vs M23/FDLR. According to Reuters and AFP reports, M23 rebels continue to advance in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, with fighting ongoing in North Kivu province as of early 2025.

Why did the DRC – Eastern Conflict start?

The DRC eastern conflict has persisted since 1998, with M23 (a primarily Tutsi rebel group) emerging as a major actor around 2012. According to UN estimates, the broader conflict has generated 6+ million casualties over its duration. M23 significantly escalated operations beginning in 2022, prompting renewed international concern per reports from BBC and AFP.

What is happening in the DRC today?

• Reuters reports M23 has captured several towns in North Kivu including Goma in early 2024–2025, advancing toward provincial capitals • AFP and DW cite FARDC (Democratic Republic of Congo Armed Forces) mounting counteroffensive operations, though sources indicate limited operational effectiveness • According to UN OCHA statements, the conflict has displaced over 6 million people, with humanitarian access severely restricted in M23-controlled areas • Al Jazeera and France 24 report FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda) also active in conflict zones, complicating military dynamics • Associated Press cites regional diplomatic efforts by Angola and other SADC members attempting to broker ceasefires, with limited success reported as of early 2025

How many people have died in the DRC – Eastern Conflict?

• ICRC reports severe shortages of medical supplies and functioning healthcare facilities in conflict-affected areas, with cholera and malnutrition documented among displaced populations • UN agencies report approximately 26+ million people in DRC require humanitarian assistance, with North Kivu experiencing acute food insecurity per WFP statements • Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International document allegations of mass atrocities, though AFP notes verification challenges in active conflict zones

Is the DRC safe to visit in 2026?

ConflictZone rates the DRC – Eastern Conflict as HIGH severity. Conditions in an active conflict can change quickly — check your government's current travel advisory before travelling, and see the live map for the latest reported incident locations.

What happens next in the DRC – Eastern Conflict?

Analysts cited by Reuters and DW suggest the conflict may persist absent major diplomatic breakthrough, with M23's military momentum potentially forcing negotiated settlement talks. Humanitarian conditions are likely to deteriorate further without sustained international aid access, per UN projections.

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