The African Union (AU) has called on parties to the conflict in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) to respect ceasefire agreements and refrain from actions that could undermine peace efforts, according to a statement released on Wednesday.

The appeal followed talks held on Monday in the rebel-controlled city of Goma between AU mediators, representatives of the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) armed group, UN agencies and humanitarian organizations. The discussions focused on the security situation, humanitarian conditions and efforts to advance peace negotiations.

AFC/M23 captured Goma and Bukavu, the respective capitals of North and South Kivu provinces, during a major offensive in early 2025 and now controls large parts of both regions. 

The AU panel called for “strict respect for ceasefire commitments, full cooperation with verification mechanisms, and restraint from actions that could undermine the peace process.” It also urged the parties to continue negotiations under the Doha peace process.

The mediators called for stronger protection of civilians, particularly women and girls, measures to prevent sexual violence and accountability for abuses. They also stressed the need for safe, humanitarian access to affected communities and the protection of schools and essential services.

The appeal comes following the resumption of fighting in North Kivu province in September, with clashes reported between Congolese government forces and AFC/M23 rebels in the Masisi, Rutshuru and Walikale territories. 

On September 20, the Congolese army accused the rebels of launching attacks on several fronts in violation of ceasefire agreements reached through the Doha and Washington peace processes. The rebel group has also accused government-aligned forces of carrying out attacks. 

The country also continues to struggle with an Ebola outbreak. Although the health authorities said last week that the outbreak had passed its peak, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) warned that declining case numbers did not mean the disease was under control. 

The agency said insecurity in affected areas continued to hamper surveillance and efforts to contain the virus. As of October 6, the country had recorded 8,728 confirmed cases and 4,205 deaths, with a fatality rate of 48.2%.