Published: 14:23, July 31, 2024
Ceasefire agreed in eastern DR Congo conflict, mediator Angola says
By Reuters
People displaced by the ongoing fighting between Congolese forces and M23 rebels gather in a camp on the outskirts of Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, March 13, 2024. (PHOTO / AP)

GOMA, Democratic Republic of Congo - A ceasefire beginning on Aug 4 in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo was agreed on Tuesday following talks between DRC and Rwanda, the Angola presidency, which has been mediating the talks, said in a statement.

READ MORE: Minister: Death toll from stampede in DR Congo's capital rises to 9

The statement did not specify which parties had agreed to the ceasefire, nor how long it would last.

A two-week humanitarian truce took place earlier in July amid fierce fighting between Congolese government troops and rebels from the M23 group.

READ MORE: Suspected Islamists kill at least 17 civilians in east DR Congo

Congo accuses Rwanda of backing the M23, which Rwanda denies.

Fighting in North Kivu province has displaced more than 1.7 million people, driving up the number displaced in Congo by multiple conflicts to a record 7.2 million, according to United Nations estimates.

READ MORE: China calls for immediate end to armed violence in DR Congo

A spokesperson for the Congolese foreign ministry confirmed the ceasefire to Reuters and said it would be of indefinite duration.