The African Union has called on all stakeholders to tackle the root causes of crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in a holistic manner in order to achieve lasting peace.
Speaking during a high level meeting of East African Community (EAC) – Southern African Development Community (SADC) co-chairs with panel of facilitators for DRC Peace process held at State House Nairobi, Kenya, the African Union Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf urged leaders to demonstrate courage and wisdom in pursuing compromise for lasting peace in the region.
“We urge all stakeholders to address the root causes of the conflict in a holistic manner. Achieving lasting peace requires courage, wisdom, and a willingness to compromise. We are confident that the leaders of this region have the capacity to make this happen.” Youssouf noted.
He reaffirmed the African Union’s central role in mediating continental conflicts, stating that the AU Commission, its Peace and Security Council, and the appointed mediator remain committed to accompanying regional efforts.
“The African Union Commission, the Peace and Security Council, and the appointed AU Mediator remain fully committed to accompanying this process.” He noted. “We also take this opportunity to commend the tireless regional efforts being undertaken for the sake of peace and stability in Eastern DRC.”
The meeting co-chaired by President William Ruto and Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa brought together leaders from EAC, SADC, and the AU to chart a coordinated approach to restoring peace and stability in Eastern DRC, which has suffered decades of insecurity, displacement, and violence.
While acknowledging the positive developments, including the Washington Agreement signed between Rwanda and the DRC, and the Declaration of Principles signed between M23 and the Government of the DRC in Goma, the AU Chairperson warned that gains would only be meaningful if implemented.
“The AU Chair acknowledged recent milestones, including the Washington Agreement between Rwanda and the DRC and the Declaration of Principles signed between the Congolese government and M23 rebels, but warned that these gains would only be meaningful if fully implemented.” He noted.
Warning that: “However, the AU underlines the centrality of its mediation role in addressing all crises on our continent. It is therefore paramount to capitalize on any breakthroughs that can bring peace and stability to our nations. For these agreements to truly transform the situation, they must be fully and faithfully implemented on the ground.”
Also read https://www.kbc.co.ke/ruto-urges-merger-of-nairobi-luanda-peace-talks-for-lasting-drc-stability/
