A new dispute is escalating between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government and the M23/Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) over the administration of higher education institutions in the rebel-held provinces of North and South Kivu.
The dispute follows the appointment last week of new administrators by the M23/AFC to several public higher education institutions in Goma, North Kivu, and Bukavu, South Kivu.
In Goma, the institutions affected include the Higher Institute of Commerce (ISC-Goma), Higher Institute of Medical Techniques (ISTM-Goma), Higher Institute of Applied Techniques (ISTA-Goma) and Higher Pedagogical Institute (ISP-Goma).
In Bukavu, the appointments reportedly targeted the Higher Institute of Commerce (ISC-Bukavu), Higher Institute of Medical Techniques (ISTM-Bukavu), Higher Pedagogical Institute (ISP-Bukavu), Higher Institute of Rural Development (ISDR-Bukavu), Higher Institute of Arts and Crafts (ISAM-Bukavu) and the Official University of Bukavu (UOB).
The moves have been rejected by the Congolese government, which has declared the appointments illegal and without any administrative or legal effect. In a statement dated August 10, 2026, The Minister of Higher Education, University, Scientific Research and Innovation Professor Dr Marie-Thérèse Sombo Ayanne Safi Mukuna said the M23/AFC had no constitutional or legal authority to appoint officials to public higher education institutions.
The minister said no de facto authority, armed movement or other structure without constitutional legitimacy could replace the legally established institutions of the Republic or assume responsibility for the organisation and administration of public universities and higher education institutions.
She added that the occupation of part of the national territory, even temporarily, did not confer sovereignty, administrative powers or institutional authority on an armed group. According to the ministry, the management committees that were lawfully appointed by the government remain in office and continue to exercise their legal powers and responsibilities.
The government also warned that individuals who claim to have obtained the disputed appointments, or who assist in implementing them, could face penalties under Congolese law. The ministry urged members of the university community in North and South Kivu, particularly those living and working in areas under M23/AFC control, to remain vigilant and committed to the institutions of the Republic.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and interests of students, lecturers, researchers and academic, scientific, administrative, technical and support staff affected by the deteriorating security situation.
The dispute over higher education administration comes as the M23/AFC expands its efforts to establish parallel administrative systems in areas under its control. In southern Lubero Territory, the group has reportedly introduced a new financial management system for schools operating in territories it controls.
The latest developments come against the backdrop of a conflict that has significantly altered the political and security landscape in eastern DRC. The M23 resurfaced as a major armed force in 2022 under the leadership of Bertrand Bisimwa and Sultani Makenga, renewing fighting against the DRC army and allied forces.
The group significantly intensified its offensive in early 2025, capturing several strategic towns in eastern DRC and deepening concerns about the possibility of a wider regional conflict. Its seizure and continued control of major population centres has also complicated diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a lasting ceasefire and resolving the conflict.
The latest attempt to assert control over public universities and schools could add another layer to those challenges, particularly as negotiations and regional diplomatic efforts continue to focus on security arrangements, territorial control and the eventual withdrawal of M23/AFC forces from occupied areas-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
