Angola has proposed the entry into force of a ceasefire between the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 rebel movement, following high-level consultations held in Luanda.
In a statement issued in Luanda on February 11, 2026, Angolan authorities said the proposal followed a meeting held last Monday between President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço of Angola, President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé of Togo, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo.
After consultations with the parties concerned, Angola proposed that the ceasefire take effect at 12:00 p.m. on the 18th, pending a public announcement confirming acceptance of the proposed date.
The statement also indicated that the preparatory phase of an Inter-Congolese dialogue, to take place in Luanda, would be announced “in a timely manner.”
The proposal comes amid continued fighting in eastern Congo. Sources and local reports indicate that Congolese armed forces, allied militias, and foreign contractors have continued military operations, including bombardments in areas under M23 control, even as diplomatic efforts advance.
It remains unclear whether M23 has been directly involved in the consultations held in Luanda or in shaping the proposed ceasefire framework. Previous peace initiatives have faced criticism for excluding key armed actors from formal negotiations.
The renewed diplomatic push reflects Angola’s ongoing mediation role in the regional crisis. However, the effectiveness of the proposed ceasefire may depend on whether all parties to the conflict formally accept the terms and halt hostilities on the ground.
Further developments are expected once the concerned parties publicly state their positions on the proposed start date.