The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is the largest country in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The DRC is endowed with exceptional natural resources, including minerals such as cobalt and copper, hydroelectric potential, significant arable land, immense biodiversity and the world's second largest rainforest.

Most people, however, have not benefited from this wealth. A long history of conflict, political upheaval, and instability, as well as authoritarian rule, has led to a serious and ongoing humanitarian crisis, which has been exacerbated since November 2021 with the resurgence of M23 activism in eastern DRC. This situation has worsened an already dire humanitarian crisis, with millions of people displaced and hundreds of cases of sexual and gender-based violence.

Renewed offensives and the capture of key cities and territories in North and South Kivu have enabled the rebels to control roughly 20% of the country’s territory. Ongoing negotiations in Washington and Doha aim to advance the implementation of the Washington Agreement, signed between Kinshasa and Kigali on June 27, 2025. Subsequently, on July 19, 2025, the Congolese government and the M23 armed group signed a declaration of principles in Doha, establishing a ceasefire and laying the groundwork for a comprehensive peace agreement.

Despite these diplomatic efforts, substantial challenges persist, delaying the effective execution of these agreements. Tensions remain high on the ground, with continued clashes involving the rebels, the Congolese army, and their allies. The security situation in Ituri province is similarly volatile, marked by inter-community violence and competition among armed groups for control over mineral resources and territories.

The government is working to reinforce state authority and credibility, enhance governance, and pursue structural reforms. These efforts are aimed at restoring and maintaining stability and peace, attracting investment, and generating employment opportunities.