DRC: Africa Demands Immediate Ceasefire
The escalation of the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), between the Congolese army and the M23 rebel group, has led other African countries to demand an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.
During the joint summit of the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), held in Tanzania, African leaders called for an end to hostilities and the search for a diplomatic solution to the crisis.
The M23 offensive on the strategic city of Goma has sparked a renewed escalation of violence, resulting in an alarming number of deaths and displacement. The call for a ceasefire comes as an attempt to halt the war's progress and allow humanitarian assistance to the affected populations.
“The joint summit reaffirmed solidarity and the unwavering commitment to continue supporting the DRC in its efforts to safeguard its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.”.
The leaders declared in their final communiqué. The military chiefs of the EAC and SADC now have five days to present a technical plan for a ceasefire and the withdrawal of forces involved in the conflict. Meanwhile, concern is growing that the war in eastern DRC will escalate into a major regional crisis if an immediate peaceful solution is not found.
African Summit Demands Peace
The emergency meeting in Dar es Salaam was attended by heads of state, including William Ruto, President of Kenya and head of the EAC, and Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe and head of the SADC. Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda, was also present, while Félix Tshisekedi, President of the DRC, participated via videoconference.
Kagame's presence at the summit generated great anticipation, given Rwanda's involvement in the conflict. Kinshasa accuses Kigali of directly supporting the M23 rebels, supplying weapons and fighters. Rwanda denies this, claiming that its involvement in the DRC is aimed at neutralizing armed groups that threaten its security.
The M23 attack on Goma and the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation have led African leaders to adopt a firmer tone. William Ruto declared that "we must resist the temptation to think that, in such a complex situation, we can find a solution through gunfire or bombing." The Kenyan president argued that only dialogue can lead to lasting peace.
Despite the consensus on the need for a ceasefire, there are differences of opinion on how to conduct the negotiations. The SADC maintains its unconditional support for Kinshasa, defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC, while the EAC suggests that the Congolese government should engage in dialogue with all stakeholders, including the M23, something Tshisekedi has refused.
African Diplomacy
The demand for an immediate ceasefire reflects African leaders' concern about the consequences of the conflict, both for the DRC and neighboring countries. The war in eastern Congo has already left more than three thousand dead and hundreds of thousands displaced, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region. Diplomatic efforts to contain the conflict are not new.
The Luanda Peace Process, mediated by Angolan President João Lourenço, achieved a temporary ceasefire in July 2024, but this was not respected. Similarly, the Nairobi Process, promoted by the EAC, made no concrete progress. The failure of these initiatives reinforces the need for a new commitment between the parties involved.
In addition to diplomatic pressure, African leaders are insisting on the creation of humanitarian corridors to ensure assistance to affected populations.
“The humanitarian cost of the conflict in the DRC is enormous.”
“Millions of civilians have been displaced and many people live under the persistent threat of violence”, warned Ruto
Insecurity in Goma, the epicenter of the conflict, is causing shortages of food, fuel, and medicine. Humanitarian organizations are struggling to operate in the region, increasing the risk of epidemics and worsening the health crisis. Given this scenario, the African summit also highlighted the urgency of providing immediate aid to war victims.
Conclusion
The demand for an immediate ceasefire in the DRC comes as a response to the escalating conflict and growing instability in the region. African leaders are banking on a diplomatic solution to avoid a prolonged war, but disagreements between regional blocs could hinder progress in negotiations.
Without a firm commitment from the parties involved, violence could continue to ravage the DRC, putting millions of lives at risk and threatening the security of Central Africa. Time is short to prevent a new humanitarian tragedy and ensure a peaceful future for the country.
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Picture: © 2025 DR
