Summary

Leaders at an unprecedented joint summit of Eastern and Southern African blocs aimed at defusing the crisis in Eastern Congo urged all parties to hold direct talks, including with Rwanda-backed rebels whose advance has fanned fears of a wider war.

In late January, the M23 rebels captured Goma, the largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo - the worst escalation of fighting in more than a decade that has left thousands dead. Despite announcing a unilateral ceasefire, they have continued to march south towards the city of Bukavu.

For context

• Reuters: Democratic Republic of Congo: What’s happening and why are M23 rebels fighting?
• BBC: What’s the fighting in DR Congo all about?
• The Conversation: Rebels are continuing their march in eastern Congo – what is their long-term goal? (Author raised in the region)
• The East African: My 24 hours with M23 in Goma (personal account)