Bahati’s statement follows M23’s takeover of the entire Congolese section of Lake Kivu on February 16, after capturing the city of Bukavu.

M23 first gained control of parts of the lake after seizing the Minova area in South Kivu on January 21, 2025. Their control expanded further when they took over Goma six days later.

Lake Kivu transport between Bukavu and Goma had been disrupted for over three weeks due to intense fighting between M23 and a coalition of the Congolese army (FARDC) and allied forces in South Kivu.

Governor Bahati informed residents of both cities that lake transport services would resume at 6 a.m. on February 18.

This decision aligns with the resolutions of East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) leaders, who, on February 8, urged the reopening of key routes to ensure civilians could continue their daily activities.

Goma and Bukavu will begin operating 24 hours a day starting February 18, 2025.

The Governor of North Kivu, Bahati Musanga Erasto.