Goma airport in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has reopened after being closed for over a year, the AFC/M23 coalition announced on Thursday. The coalition granted landing permission to MONUSCO special envoy Vivian van de Perre, who is overseeing preparations for the implementation of the ceasefire.
The airport was closed in January 2025, following heavy clashes when the AFC/M23 group seized Goma and surrounding areas, confronting the Congolese national army (FARDC). Security concerns have kept it out of use until now.
International peace talks have repeatedly highlighted the airport’s reopening as crucial for facilitating humanitarian operations and restoring stability in the region. During a summit in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron called for its reopening to support international aid efforts.
Rwanda’s foreign minister, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, previously stressed that any reopening should be coordinated between AFC/M23, the Congolese government, and neutral mediators. AFC/M23 coordinator Corneille Nangaa emphasized that no one could authorize access without the group’s consent, as it controls the area.
The airport’s reopening is part of the Doha agreements between AFC/M23 and the Congolese government, aimed at establishing a ceasefire and halting hostilities.
On Thursday, MONUSCO confirmed that AFC/M23 allowed the plane carrying Vivian van de Perre to enter Goma airspace and land. The visit is intended to monitor progress in implementing the ceasefire.
AFC/M23 said the decision reflects its commitment to supporting sustainable peace and dialogue. Vivian van de Perre added that reopening Goma airport is a positive step, enabling MONUSCO and international partners to carry out peacekeeping and humanitarian activities more effectively.
Under UN Security Council Resolution 2808 (2025), MONUSCO is authorized to support the ceasefire, providing technical and logistical assistance to CIRGL envoys through joint monitoring forces (EJVM+).
