Ex-Ethiopia Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, ex-Kenya President Uhuru Kenyatta, and ex-Nigeria President Olusegun Obasanjo have been appointed to lead a peace process in the DRC amid escalating violence from the M23 rebel group. The ICC has initiated an investigation into the conflict. Regional blocs are striving for a ceasefire to address the humanitarian crisis, which has seen over 7,000 casualties reported since January.
On February 26, 2025, it was announced that former leaders from Ethiopia, Kenya, and Nigeria have been designated as facilitators for a new peace process in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The appointed facilitators are ex-Ethiopia Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, ex-Kenya President Uhuru Kenyatta, and ex-Nigeria President Olusegun Obasanjo. Their role came in response to an increase in violence in the DRC, particularly involving the M23 rebel group, which has gained control of significant cities in the eastern region since reviving hostilities in late 2021.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has responded to the escalating conflict, with prosecutor Karim Khan arriving in Kinshasa to investigate the surging violence. The DRC has faced prolonged unrest for nearly thirty years, resulting in millions of fatalities linked to ongoing strife over its mineral-rich territories. Khan expressed grave concern about the recent developments, particularly in eastern DRC, stating the situation there is critical.
Regional blocs, specifically the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC), have united to establish a ceasefire amidst this turmoil. This collaboration follows their agreement on February 8 to merge two earlier peace negotiations from Luanda and Nairobi that were disrupted by the latest violence. They outlined their primary objectives, including an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian assistance delivery, and securing Goma Airport.
DRC Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka reported that over 7,000 individuals have died in the conflict since January. Although these numbers have yet to be independently confirmed, their alarm underscores the dire humanitarian crisis stemming from the ongoing violence in the region.
The appointment of ex-leaders as facilitators signifies a concerted effort to address the escalating violence in the DRC. With significant regional backing, the push for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid reflects the urgent need to stabilize a region plagued by decades of conflict. The situation remains critical, with thousands reportedly losing their lives amid the ongoing unrest.
Original Source: www.ena.et
