The political coordinator of the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), Corneille Nangaa, has called on the Muslim community in Goma town to play a leading role in fostering peace among the Congolese people.
Addressing Muslim community during celebrations marking Eid al-Fitr in Goma—a strategic city currently under the administrative influence of the AFC/M23 coalition—Nangaa emphasized that the path to lasting stability requires promoting peace among all the people of DR Congo.
“We take this opportunity to call for peace among all people, both in Congo and around the world,” Nangaa said. “The holy month of Ramadan reminds us of the importance of solidarity, sharing, and collective spirituality, which strengthen our ability to live together.”
Muslims were able to gather for Eid al-Fitr after the AFC/M23 took control of large parts of eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Prior to 2025, insecurity had forced some worshippers to cross into Rubavu town in neighboring Rwanda to celebrate safely, as public Eid gatherings in Goma were often suspended due to security concerns attributed to the Kinshasa regime.
At the time, authorities in Goma encouraged Muslims to observe Eid prayers within their homes or local mosques but restricted access to larger venues such as the Stade de l’Unité for security reasons.
The AFC/M23 political coordinator made the appeal amid continued attacks by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an Islamist armed group with links to the Islamic State, which continues to carry out deadly assaults in the northern Democratic Republic of the Congo near the Ugandan border.
According to a government statement, the ADF—originally formed by Ugandan rebels—recently attacked gold mining sites near the town of Muchacha in Ituri province on Wednesday night, killing several people.
“We must leave what the Muslims do by adopting the modern Muslims, these Ramadan jams as an opportunity to strengthen social cohesion by encouraging dialogue, tolerance, openness and solidarity,” added Nangaa.
Efforts by the M23 to restore peace and security in Goma town were praised by worshippers who gathered to celebrate Eid al-Fitr at the Stade de l’Unité. Many expressed gratitude for the safety and stability that allowed public celebrations to take place.
“I’m very happy to have joined other Muslims here,” said Abdul Karim. “I’m grateful to AFC/M23 for restoring safety in Goma town.”
Another resident, Yassin, added: “We pray for lasting peace and hope to reunite with our fellow citizens in Kinshasa,Inshallah!.”