The Enhanced Ad Hoc Verification Mechanism (EAM-R), established under the Luanda Process, was officially launched on Tuesday in Goma, North Kivu. The new initiative aims to oversee the fragile ceasefire between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), but faces significant challenges in fulfilling its mission.
The EAM-R is led by Angola, with the involvement of Congolese and Rwandan officers, and is tasked with monitoring the ceasefire and investigating allegations of aggression between the two nations.
The mechanism is composed of 18 soldiers from Angola, along with six soldiers from Rwanda and the DRC—three from each country. In addition, a team of observers has been selected from each of the participating nations to support the verification efforts.
Minister and Ambassador Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe emphasized that today marks an important step in discussions, as they establish a team of (18 soldiers) observers to monitor the ceasefire, with the goal of achieving peace in the eastern region of the DRC. He also noted that another meeting is scheduled for November 16, 2024, to continue progress on the issue.
The EAM-R’s first major test will be ensuring compliance with the ceasefire agreement signed in July 2024. However, the situation on the ground has remained volatile. In recent weeks, the M23 rebel group has intensified its operations, opening a new front in the Walikale territory, occupying several villages, and advancing into Lubero.
A second challenge for the EAM-R is logistical: ensuring access to the conflict zones. The vast and often remote areas—including Rutshuru, Masisi, Nyiragongo, Lubero, and Walikale—pose significant obstacles to effective monitoring. The EAM-R team will need to be able to move freely and safely to conduct thorough and neutral assessments, but the ongoing conflict and difficult terrain may complicate these efforts.
Finally, the success of the mechanism will depend heavily on the cooperation of both Rwanda and the DRC, as well as support from regional and international partners. Observers remain cautiously optimistic that the EAM-R can help ease tensions and contribute to a long-term solution.
Despite these challenges, many believe the EAM-R could play a key role in de-escalating the ongoing conflict and fostering peace in the region. However, its success will hinge on overcoming logistical hurdles and ensuring that all parties engage in genuine cooperation.
