Historic Peace Agreement Signed Between Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda
In a significant step towards ending the long-standing conflict in the Great Lakes region, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have signed a draft peace agreement. The signing, which took place in Washington, was hailed by the Head of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), Bintou Keita, as a "major step forward towards the end of the conflict." Keita welcomed the tireless efforts of the United States in facilitating the agreement, which she believes marks a decisive step towards peace and stability in the region.
The agreement is based on mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, human rights, and international humanitarian law, and is founded on the prospect of shared prosperity through regional economic integration. United States Ambassador Dorothy Shea described the signing as a "major accomplishment" that supports African-led processes and represents a historic step towards securing durable peace in eastern DRC. The agreement also creates conditions for economic development to benefit the people in the region.
However, the security situation in eastern DRC remains a concern, with the representative of the DRC, Hippolyte Kingonzila Mfulu, reporting that the area is still characterized by Rwandan aggression. Kingonzila Mfulu noted that troops deployed in support of the M23 elements continue to commit massacres, rape, and forced recruitment, violating human rights and international humanitarian law. Despite this, the agreement includes a commitment from Rwanda to withdraw its troops unconditionally from DRC’s territory.
Rwandan Ambassador Martin Ngoga acknowledged that there is still work to be done but expressed optimism that the path to lasting peace is clearer than ever. He highlighted the importance of a standing joint security coordination mechanism to oversee the implementation of the agreement and the lifting of Rwanda’s defensive measures. Ngoga emphasized that these measures are directly linked to the threat posed by the remnants of the forces that committed the genocide against the Tutsi in 1994.
As the region moves forward, it is clear that the negotiated political solution is the only responsible and viable path. With the history of the Great Lakes region in mind, Rwanda remains committed to supporting diplomatic initiatives. The international community, including MONUSCO, is urged to tone down rhetoric and focus on supporting these efforts. The signing of the peace agreement is a crucial step towards a more peaceful and prosperous future for the people of the DRC and the Great Lakes region. As the world watches, it is imperative that all parties involved work together to ensure the agreement’s success and bring an end to the conflict that has plagued the region for far too long.
