Five African heads of state have met in Addis Ababa to reignite peace efforts and address the dire humanitarian and economic consequences of the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The presidents, including João Lourenço (Angola), Félix Tshisekedi (DRC), William Ruto (Kenya), Paul Kagame (Rwanda), and Cyril Ramaphosa (South Africa), have held closed-door meetings about the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, believing that their combined influence and commitment could bring regional stability and offer hope for a peaceful resolution.
Angolan President Lourenço, the mediator between the DRC and Rwanda, emphasised the critical need to revive the peace process as the recent escalation of violence has caused immense suffering, displaced thousands, and jeopardised the lives of millions.
Since the 1996 First Congo War between the DRC and Rwanda, conflict in eastern DRC has led to approximately six million deaths and over seven million internally displaced people. The peace process in eastern Congo continues to be fragile, with multiple armed groups operating throughout the region, terrorising civilians and blocking the path to long-term peace.
The outcomes of the meetings are still unknown, but sources state that they will be compiled into a final communiqué that will provide specific actions for achieving long-term peace.