President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, has expressed confidence that he will regain all territories controlled by the AFC/M23 coalition in the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu after the national football team secured a ticket to compete in the World Cup.
The night of March 31, 2026, was marked by widespread celebrations among Congolese across the country after the national team defeated Jamaica 1–0, qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in 52 years.
Residents in areas controlled by AFC/M23, such as the city of Goma, also stayed up late celebrating the victory, highlighting that they share much with people in other parts of the country despite being governed by opposing sides.
Tshisekedi Sees Eastern Celebrations as a Sign of Strength
On April 5, 2026, during celebrations held in Kinshasa to honor the national team and thank the players, President Tshisekedi said that the celebrations in eastern parts of the country demonstrate the strength that will help him reclaim those territories.
Tshisekedi stated: “You saw the images. Even in areas controlled by the enemy there was celebration, and we will regain them soon because of this strength, because of this pride.”
The head of state expressed confidence about retaking these areas at a time when AFC/M23 insists it will not withdraw and warns that if attacked, it will “destroy the enemy at the source,” a statement suggesting the possibility of expanding its positions.
Uncertain Political Path as Peace Talks Are Mentioned
Whenever the Congolese army has attempted to retake lost territories, AFC/M23 has often overpowered it and captured even more areas. The international community has repeatedly indicated that political dialogue is the most viable way to end the conflict, but Tshisekedi has remained reluctant to engage.
Reports indicate that peace talks between the Congolese government and AFC/M23 could resume in April 2026. However, they are unlikely to take place again in Doha, Qatar, due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, and may instead be moved to Switzerland.
While discussions about peace negotiations continue, both the Congolese government and AFC/M23 appear to be maintaining a cautious stance, suggesting that if political progress is not achieved soon, the war could escalate again.