Nearly 40 members of the M23 rebel group have surrendered to authorities in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, according to military officials. The surrender, which took place in North Kivu province, Kalehe, and South Kivu, included two officers and a mix of civilians, soldiers, and police officers who had been forcibly conscripted by the rebel group earlier this year.

The M23 had captured the cities of Goma and Bukavu, leading to the kidnapping and forced recruitment of locals. The army commander has called on other rebels to follow suit, potentially marking a significant step towards resolving the conflict. The surrender comes on the heels of an agreement between the DRC and M23 to establish an oversight body for a potential permanent ceasefire, signed in Doha after mediation by Qatar.

This agreement builds upon a declaration of principles signed in July, aimed at restoring state authorities in eastern Congo. The M23, backed by Rwanda, is one of over 100 armed groups vying for control of the DRC’s mineral-rich east. The conflict has resulted in the displacement of 7 million people, with the United Nations describing it as “one of the most protracted, complex and serious humanitarian crises on Earth.”

The decades-long conflict has had a devastating impact on the region, with the surrender of M23 rebels potentially paving the way for a more lasting peace. The establishment of an oversight body for a ceasefire is a crucial step towards achieving this goal. As the situation continues to unfold, international observers will be watching closely to see if the agreement holds and if other rebel groups follow the M23’s lead.

The DRC’s mineral-rich eastern region has long been a point of contention, with various armed groups competing for control. The M23’s surrender may mark a shift in the balance of power, potentially allowing for greater stability and security in the region. However, with numerous other armed groups still active, the road to lasting peace remains long and challenging.