How Rwanda’s M23 Rebels Are Building a War Economy in DR Congo
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have established a parallel system of governance and taxation across areas they control in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, using income from businesses, transport, cross-border trade and minerals to finance their administration and military operations.
The rebels have taken control of major cities including Goma and Bukavu and impose fees on residents, businesses, transporters and humanitarian organisations. Mineral resources, particularly coltan from the Rubaya mining area, provide another major source of revenue, with minerals reportedly moving through Rwanda and into international markets.
However, the taxation system is placing further pressure on an economy already damaged by war. The closure of banks and Goma airport has disrupted trade and left many residents struggling to access money, jobs and basic services.
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Democratic Republic of Congo authorities have released 15 prisoners and handed them over to the AFC/M23 rebel movement in the first known prisoner transfer under a 2025 peace deal.
The deal is aimed at ending fighting in eastern Congo. The transfer, facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross and with Uganda’s assistance, follows months of stalled negotiations over a larger exchange involving
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![Eastern DR Congo has seen repeated waves of violence and displacement. Pictured here, families sheltering at an IDP camp in Ituri province in September 2025.]()
The deal between the Democratic Republic of Congo government and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group includes a mechanism to monitor ceasefire violations, and sets timelines for negotiations under a 2025 US-brokered peace framework.
However, disagreements remain over sanctions, detainees and political reforms. M23, the government of DR Congo, Qatar, the US, the Republic of Togo, the African Union Commission and
M23 rebels near Sake, Eastern DR Congo.
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