The United Nations has broadened its sanctions regime targeting armed factions operating in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, adding several groups and individuals to its restrictive measures. Among those newly listed is the Alliance des Forces du Congo (AFC), a political-military coalition linked to the March 23 Movement (M23), which maintains control over swathes of territory in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces.

Corneille Naanga, former head of the Independent National Electoral Commission, has been designated as the AFC’s leader. His inclusion follows the UN’s determination that the group’s activities undermine regional peace and security.

John Imani Nzenze, identified as the intelligence chief of the AFC’s military wing, has also been sanctioned. The M23, already under UN restrictions, remains a focal point of international concern due to its ongoing clashes with government forces and documented abuses against civilians.

Asset freezes, travel bans, and Interpol listings

The latest measures extend to Charles Sematama, military commander of the Twirwaneho faction—an AFC ally operating in South Kivu. According to UN assessments, Twirwaneho has been implicated in grave violations, including civilian killings, child recruitment, and actions destabilizing the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Muhammed Lumisa, logistics coordinator for the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF)—a jihadist outfit affiliated with the Islamic State—has also been added to the sanctions list. The ADF’s brutal campaigns in eastern Congo have drawn global condemnation.

Two senior figures from the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) are now subject to restrictions: self-proclaimed Brigadier General Sébastien Uwimbabazi and Commander Gustave Kubwayo. The FDLR, composed largely of former Rwandan génocidaires, has long been accused of cross-border violence and regional destabilization.

Undermining peace and security in eastern DRC

The UN Security Council’s decision underscores the gravity of threats posed by these groups. Sanctions imposed include asset freezes, travel prohibitions, and inclusion on Interpol’s watchlists. Member states are obligated to enforce these measures to curb the flow of weapons and disrupt financial networks supporting armed factions.

For the AFC and Twirwaneho, the measures also entail a comprehensive arms embargo, intensifying pressure on leaders accused of prolonging conflict in mineral-rich eastern Congo.