African leaders united Saturday in a historic push to halt escalating violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), urging an 'immediate ceasefire' and merging peace initiatives to stabilize the region amid fears of a wider war.
Summit Seeks Coordinated Response
The East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC)—two major regional blocs—jointly convened leaders in Tanzania's Dar es Salaam. The summit emphasized reopening critical supply routes like the Goma-Bukavu road and restoring access to Goma International Airport, vital for humanitarian aid.
Peace Processes at a Crossroads
With Kenya's Nairobi Process stalled and Angola-led Luanda Process suspended, leaders proposed merging both frameworks into a unified 'Luanda/Nairobi Process'. The plan includes appointing new mediators and regional military chiefs to enforce ceasefire terms within five days. DRC, while rejecting direct talks with M23 rebels, signaled openness to reviving negotiations.
Roots of Crisis and Regional Tensions
The conflict traces back to unresolved ethnic and geopolitical tensions post-1994 Rwandan genocide. DRC accuses Rwanda of backing the M23, while Rwanda alleges collaboration between DRC forces and Hutu-linked rebel groups. Over 2,900 have died since M23 captured Goma in January, displacing thousands toward Bukavu.
Sovereignty and Next Steps
The summit demanded withdrawal of 'uninvited foreign forces' from DRC, stressing respect for territorial integrity. Burundi's President Evariste Ndayishimiye warned of 'widespread regional war' if hostilities persist. With both DRC and Rwandan leaders attending, hopes for de-escalation hinge on rapid diplomatic action.
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African leaders call for immediate ceasefire in eastern DR Congo
cgtn.com
