The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda have signed a historic peace agreement, marking a significant development in the region after 30 years of conflict. The deal, facilitated by international pressure and witnessed by several African leaders, aims to bring an end to the bloodshed and instability that has plagued the Great Lakes region. However, the absence of the M23 rebel movement from the negotiations has raised concerns about the agreement’s effectiveness.

The conflict between the two countries has had far-reaching consequences, with millions of people affected by the violence, displacement, and exploitation of natural resources. The region is rich in minerals such as cobalt, coltan, and gold, which has fueled the conflict and made it a complex issue to resolve. The new agreement is seen as a significant step towards peace, but its success depends on the willingness of all parties involved to commit to the process.

The M23 rebel movement, which controls large areas of North Kivu, was not part of the negotiations, leaving a significant gap in the agreement. Rwanda’s influence over the group has been a major point of contention between Kigali and Kinshasa, and the deal’s failure to address this issue has raised questions about its long-term viability. The exploitation of minerals in the region has also been a major driver of the conflict, and any attempt to stabilize the region must confront this issue.

The involvement of African leaders in the peace process is a positive development, as it recognizes the regional dimension of the conflict. However, the fact that the negotiations took place in Washington and Doha, rather than in African cities such as Addis Ababa or Kinshasa, has raised questions about the ownership and sustainability of the agreement.

The next steps will be crucial in determining the success of the agreement. The region needs honest dialogue, including with armed groups, as well as a truth and reconciliation process to address the trauma of the past. Transparent mineral governance and a regional commitment to peace are also essential. The people of eastern Congo have waited long enough for peace, and it is up to the international community to support them in their quest for stability and prosperity.