Congolese group calls on Kenya to probe M23 activities in Nairobi

A coalition of Congolese diaspora organisations in Kenya has formally requested that Kenyan authorities investigate alleged recruitment and fundraising efforts by the M23 rebel group within Nairobi. The petition, signed by several community leaders, urges the Kenyan government to examine reports that M23 operatives are using the capital city to enlist young Congolese migrants and to collect money to support their armed campaign in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The appeal was submitted to Kenya’s Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government as well as to the National Police Service. It cites intelligence from community members who claim that M23 representatives have approached Congolese nationals in informal settlements, offering financial incentives for joining the militia or contributing to its war chest. The petitioners also request that any individuals found to be facilitating such activities be prosecuted under Kenyan law.

The eastern DRC has been embroiled in a protracted conflict since 2012, when the M23 rebellion, composed mainly of former national army soldiers, seized control of parts of North Kivu province. Despite multiple ceasefire agreements, the group has continued to launch attacks, displacing thousands and destabilising the region. Neighboring countries, including Rwanda and Uganda, have faced accusations of providing support to the rebels, further complicating diplomatic efforts to achieve lasting peace.

Kenyan officials have not yet commented publicly on the petition, but the Ministry of Interior confirmed that it receives regular reports on foreign extremist activities and that any credible allegations will be investigated. The Congolese community in Kenya, which numbers several thousand, has expressed concern that unchecked rebel activity could jeopardise the safety of migrants and strain Kenya’s security apparatus.

If substantiated, the findings could lead to arrests and tighter monitoring of diaspora networks, as Kenya seeks to balance its commitment to regional stability with the protection of its own citizens.