President William Ruto has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and renewed efforts for peace in the conflict-stricken Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In a statement on Monday, January 27, Ruto who also serves as Chair of the East African Community (EAC) expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in the region, made worse by ongoing military actions, including the recent closure of Goma airspace.
"The escalating conflict and deteriorating situation in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are of grave concern to the People and Governments of East Africa.
"Noting the worsening humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by ongoing military actions, including the closure of airspace in Goma, I call for the immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities," he said.
Ruto emphasized the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, which has inflicted significant suffering on civilians, particularly women and children.
Read More
"I emphasize the obligation of all parties to facilitate humanitarian access to affected populations and urge both sides to pursue peaceful means to resolve this tragic conflict. These alarming developments, coupled with rising diplomatic tensions in the region, underscore the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to a conflict that continues to inflict untold suffering on the people, particularly women and children," he added.
As Chair of the EAC, Ruto affirmed the regional bloc’s critical responsibility in de-escalating violence and facilitating dialogue.
He also appealed to Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame to prioritize peace efforts under the Luanda process.
"As the current Chair of the East African Community, Kenya is aware of the region’s critical responsibility in de-escalating violence and facilitating dialogue between the parties involved. We firmly believe that a sustainable solution can only be achieved through engagement, constructive dialogue, and a renewed commitment to peace.
"I call on the parties to the Luanda process on Eastern DRC and appeal to my brothers, President Félix Tshisekedi and President Paul Kagame; both of whom I have spoken to this evening, to heed the call for peace from the people of our region and the international community. I call on them to dedicate all efforts towards achieving peace in Eastern DRC and restoring good neighborliness; an essential principle underpinning regional peace and collective responsibility," he further.
Additionally, Ruto announced plans for an extraordinary EAC Summit within the next 48 hours to deliberate on the conflict and chart a path forward. He noted that both Tshisekedi and Kagame will participate in the summit.
"Consequently, and having consulted with the Heads of State of the region, on this dire situation, we will be convening an extraordinary EAC Summit within the next 48 hours to deliberate on this crisis and chart a way forward. This is in line with the EAC Summit’s decision of November 2024, which called for constructive engagement to address the conflict. I thank both President Tshisekedi and President Kagame for their confirmed participation in this summit," Ruto stated.
Further, Ruto called on the African Union (AU) to take a more active role in resolving the crisis.
"Additionally, the African Union (AU) must not remain passive in the face of this escalating crisis. The EAC stands ready to forge a stronger collaboration with the AU and SADC, as well as the international community in encouraging the warring parties to prioritize engagement," he concluded.
The conflict in Eastern DRC has reached alarming levels, resulting in the severance of diplomatic ties between the DRC and Rwanda.
At the center of this crisis is the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, which the DRC accuses Rwanda of supporting.
The M23 rebels have made significant territorial gains in eastern DRC, including their recent capture of Goma, leading to a massive displacement of civilians.
The violence has also led to numerous casualties, including the deaths of at least 13 international peacekeepers.
The DRC government has responded strongly to what it perceives as Rwanda’s backing of the M23 including recalling its diplomats from Rwanda.
DRC has also demanded the closure of Rwanda’s consular operations in Kinshasa.
