Kigali, Rwanda – In a significant effort to enhance the peace process in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the African Union (AU) convened consultations in Kigali, emphasizing the importance of security commitments, refugee protection, and regional cooperation. This initiative is particularly vital as fighting persists in the region, overshadowing ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace.
Held on October 6, the discussions were anchored on the implementation of the Washington Peace Agreement. This agreement establishes a framework for security arrangements, disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration of combatants, along with the protection of refugees and initiatives fostering regional economic collaboration. The delegation notably consisted of esteemed former leaders: Sahle-Work Zewde, the former President of Ethiopia and current deputy chairperson of the AU Panel of Facilitators for the peace process; Uhuru Kenyatta, former President of Kenya; and Mokgweetsi Masisi, former President of Botswana.
These consultations followed prior meetings held in Goma, which took place on October 5. During these, the AU delegation engaged with representatives from key international bodies including the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The AU panel underscored the need for adherence to ceasefire commitments and cooperation with verification mechanisms, aiming to safeguard civilians and ensure safe access for humanitarian assistance.
In Kigali, the facilitators held distinct sessions with Rwandan officials and representatives from regional institutions, where they delved into matters of security, the protection of refugees and returnees, and collaborative economic ventures encompassing mineral traceability and cross-border trade. These discussions reflect a concerted effort to address the multifaceted challenges facing the region.
The ongoing consultations are taking place alongside separate negotiations that aim to tackle the DRC conflict from different angles. The Washington Peace Agreement, finalized on June 27, 2025, focuses on security commitments between the DRC and Rwanda to curtail the activities of armed groups. However, its implementation has faced hurdles, as highlighted during a committee meeting where parties expressed concern over escalating violence.
Concurrent to this, the Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement, reached on November 15, 2025, facilitates dialogue between the Congolese government and the AFC/M23 under Qatar’s mediation. It establishes a foundation to negotiate key issues, including security protocols and ceasefire monitoring.
Despite good faith efforts, tensions remain between Kinshasa and Kigali, with mutual accusations complicating the peace landscape. Nonetheless, the AU’s mediation efforts in both Goma and Kigali exemplify the organization’s commitment to fostering dialogue and achieving a sustainable resolution to the ongoing conflict. The success of these initiatives hinges on the parties’ dedication to fulfilling their commitments and their willingness to engage constructively in the peace processes.
As the region navigates these complex dynamics, the prospect of peace depends on collaborative efforts among key stakeholders committed to the restoration of stability and security in the DRC.
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