South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Rwandan President Paul Kagame have called for an urgent ceasefire and the resumption of peace talks following escalating violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In a telephone conversation, the two leaders discussed the deteriorating security situation in the DRC, where intensified fighting has resulted in the deaths of Southern African Development Community Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) peacekeepers. The ongoing conflict, primarily involving Congolese government forces and the M23 rebel group, has heightened regional tensions and worsened the humanitarian crisis.
According to a statement from the South African Presidency, Ramaphosa and Kagame emphasized the need for all parties to commit to dialogue and de-escalation efforts. Their discussion aligns with broader regional and international calls for a political solution to the crisis.
The renewed clashes come despite previous mediation efforts by the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), as well as the presence of peacekeeping forces under the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) and SAMIDRC.
Rwanda has previously been accused by Kinshasa of supporting the M23 rebels, allegations Kigali denies. The increasing hostilities have raised concerns of a wider regional conflict, with the potential to destabilize neighboring countries.
President Ramaphosa, whose country has deployed troops under SAMIDRC, reiterated South Africa’s commitment to peace efforts in the DRC and urged renewed diplomatic engagement. President Kagame echoed the need for dialogue while emphasizing the importance of addressing the root causes of the conflict.
The DRC conflict has led to mass displacement, with thousands of civilians fleeing their homes as armed groups battle government forces. Humanitarian agencies warn of worsening conditions as efforts to broker peace remain fragile.
