Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) leader Felix Tshisekedi are set to join high-stakes regional talks in Tanzania this weekend, as tensions escalate over the M23 rebel group's advances in eastern DRC. The conflict has displaced thousands and destabilized the mineral-rich region, raising concerns about broader humanitarian and economic fallout.
A Region on Edge
The March 23 Movement (M23), which the DRC accuses Rwanda of supporting, recently captured the strategic city of Goma and expanded into South Kivu province. Rwanda denies involvement and counters that the DRC harbors the FDLR—a group linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Analysts warn the situation threatens cross-border stability and global supply chains for cobalt and copper.
Virtual Engagement, Real Stakes
While Kagame attended in person, Tshisekedi joined the summit via video call. The meeting brought together leaders from the East African Community and Southern African Development Community, including Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia. Previous peace initiatives brokered by Angola and Kenya collapsed amid ceasefire violations, underscoring the fragility of current efforts.
What's Next?
Observers highlight competing priorities: The DRC seeks Rwanda's isolation, while Rwanda demands action against FDLR forces. With millions displaced and regional economies strained, the summit tests Africa's ability to resolve internal crises without external mediation. As one diplomat noted: \"This isn't just about two nations—it's about whether multilateralism can still work in a divided world.\"
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
