African leaders have met in Tanzania, urging an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” within five days concerning the DRC crisis exacerbated by the M23 armed group. The summit sought military talks to secure a ceasefire and establish humanitarian corridors as violence continues to escalate, causing significant civilian distress.
A summit of African leaders convened in Tanzania on Saturday to address the ongoing crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), calling for an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” within five days. The meeting included Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who attended in person, and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, who participated via video link. The summit’s ending statement urged military chiefs from both sides to convene within five days to discuss ceasefire details and the establishment of humanitarian corridors.
The DRC has been facing severe conflict, particularly due to the actions of the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group, which has captured significant territory in the resource-rich eastern region. This resurgence has led to thousands of casualties and mass displacements. The M23’s control of key locations like Goma has heightened concerns about regional instability, sparking calls for coordinated peace efforts.
The urgency for an immediate ceasefire underscores the critical situation in the DRC, where ongoing violence threatens not only local stability but potentially wider regional conflict. The call for military discussions and humanitarian aid access indicates a recognition of the dire humanitarian crisis unfolding as a result of the conflict. The international community’s involvement and continued diplomatic efforts will be essential in seeking a resolution.
Original Source: www.insidenova.com
