Kenya has called on the United States and Qatar to sustain their support for the consolidated Luanda-Nairobi process, noting that it is vital for securing long-term solutions and stability in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In a statement the Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi commended the unified initiative by the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which harmonized the Nairobi and Luanda peace processes.
He welcomed the continued commitment of regional and international partners in advancing the peace process in the DRC.
“We particularly acknowledge the unified initiative by the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which harmonized the Nairobi and Luanda peace processes.” CS Mudavadi said, “The African Union (AU) has supported this merger to enhance coordination, harmonization and complementarity of the two Processes and the appointment of additional facilitators to support the merged process, in consultations with the AU Commission.”
Recognition of Qatar and the United States
At the same time, Kenya lauded Qatar for its role in the mediation saying that the move underscores commitment to international peace and security acknowledging the steadfast and constructive role played by the State of Qatar in facilitating peace efforts between the DRC, Rwanda, and the AFC/М23.
“Qatar’s exemplary role in mediation, as demonstrated by its draft peace proposal and hosting of negotiations, underscores its commitment to international peace and security. Kenya acknowledges and supports the steadfast and constructive role played by Qatar in facilitating peace efforts between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Republic of Rwanda, and the AFC/М23.” Mudavadi noted.
He cited the trilateral meeting held on 18 March 2025, graciously hosted by His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, and attended by President Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, significantly contributed to advancing negotiations, fostering mutual understanding, and promoting de-escalation of tensions in the region.
Similarly, Mudavadi commended the United States’ continued engagement, alongside regional and international partners noting the efforts will be crucial in addressing the root causes of instability and fostering sustainable peace.
He commended the US for its mediation efforts, which culminated in the signing of an agreement between the DRC and Rwanda noting that the agreement reflects a commitment to cease hostilities, uphold territorial integrity, end support for armed groups, and establish a Joint Security Coordination Mechanism to oversee implementation.
At the same time, Kenya welcomed the agreement’s provisions aimed at facilitating the safe and dignified return of refugees and advancing regional economic integration as a pathway to sustainable peace and development.
Continued regional and international collaboration needed
Additionally Kenya expressed appreciation to the contributions of facilitators, who have brought expertise and diverse perspectives to address the complex challenges facing the DRC noting that the coordinated approach is vital for the people of the DRC and reinforces the broader efforts of the African Union and other regional stakeholders to prevent the situation in the DRC from becoming one of Africa’s protracted and forgotten conflicts.
Kenya has urged all parties involved to honour and execute the agreements established through these comprehensive peace initiatives.
“While notable advancements have been achieved, Kenya recognizes the enduring challenges in Eastern DRC, which have persisted for decades. These lingering challenges necessitate sustained, coordinated, and context-sensitive interventions. Kenya, therefore, calls upon all parties and other stakeholders to remain committed to dialogue and cooperation to resolve the conflict for lasting stability in the DRC and the region.” He stressed on the statement.
Commitment to African-led solutions
Mudavadi reiterated, Nairobi’s commitment to African-led solutions to the challenges facing Africa, particularly in the pursuit of peace in the DRC while recognizing that the support of the international partners is important in achieving lasting peace and stability.
“The contributions of external parties, such as the United States and Qatar, have been instrumental in advancing the peace process. Kenya believes that the combination of African leadership and international cooperation is the key to addressing the region’s challenges effectively.” Mudavadi said.
Also read https://www.kbc.co.ke/mudavadi-leads-regional-security-talks-on-drc-crisis/
