North Kivu, DRC – The March 23 Movement (M23) rebel administration has announced a significant reduction in fuel prices across areas under its control in North Kivu Province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, in what appears to be part of broader efforts to stimulate business and ease transport challenges.
According to a statement dated September 29, and signed by Chadrak Bahati Amani, the Deputy Governor of North Kivu under M23’s administration, the new pump prices took immediate effect following consultations with local fuel dealers.
Under the revised tariff, a litre of petrol now costs 3,422 Congolese francs (approximately UGX 4,659), down from 3,690 francs (UGX 4,995) representing a reduction of 268 francs (about UGX 341).
Similarly, diesel has been reduced from 3,400 francs (UGX 4,602) to 3,306 francs (UGX 4,206), marking a drop of 94 francs (UGX 120) per litre.
The announcement followed a September 26 meeting between M23 authorities and the Association of Oil Producers of North Kivu (APENOKI). All fuel stations in territories controlled by the rebel group have been directed to immediately display and implement the new official rates.
While no official explanation was given for the price adjustments, observers say the decision aligns with a series of recent measures by M23 aimed at improving living conditions and revitalizing economic activity in the region.
Earlier this month, the group reopened the Grande Barrière border crossing with Rwanda at Rubavu, extending operating hours from 6 a.m. to midnight to facilitate trade and movement between the two countries.
In July, M23 also welcomed Uganda’s reopening of the Bunagana, Busanza (Kisoro District), and Ishasha (Kanungu District) border points, describing the move as a positive step toward strengthening regional commerce and integration.
The rebels have also voiced concerns about infrastructure sabotage. Last week, M23 condemned the bombing of Mpeti Bridge in Walikale territory, warning that the act would cripple local trade and transport networks vital to community livelihoods.
M23 currently controls vast territories across North and parts of South Kivu Provinces, following its resurgence in 2022 after nearly a decade of dormancy. The group claims its armed campaign seeks to address corruption, xenophobia, and discrimination within the Congolese political and security system.
However, the Kinshasa government continues to accuse Rwanda of backing M23, allegations that both Kigali and the rebel movement strongly deny.
Despite ongoing clashes with Congolese forces and regional peacekeeping efforts, M23 has continued to exercise de facto administrative control in several eastern territories, implementing local governance measures such as tax regulation, infrastructure maintenance, and now fuel price reform.
