On February 26, 2025, ex-leaders from Ethiopia, Kenya, and Nigeria were appointed facilitators for a new peace initiative in the DRC. This follows a surge in violence attributed to the M23 rebel group, with significant territorial gains for them. The ICC has sent a prosecutor to investigate, while regional efforts aim for a ceasefire and humanitarian assistance in the conflict-ridden area.
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). Specifically, ex-Ethiopia Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, ex-Kenya President Uhuru Kenyatta, and ex-Nigeria President Olusegun Obasanjo will lead efforts to restore peace in this conflict-ridden nation.
The recent resurgence of violence in eastern DRC, primarily attributed to the M23 rebel group, has led to significant territorial gains for the rebels. They have captured two major cities in the region, escalating tensions and contributing to nearly three decades of ongoing unrest that has resulted in millions of deaths.
Karim Khan, the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor, arrived in Kinshasa to investigate the rising violence. He expressed serious concern over the situation, particularly in eastern Congo, where the impact of conflict is acutely felt. The ICC aims to assess the circumstances surrounding these violent outbreaks.
In response to the violence, the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) have convened to create a unified approach for peace. They are merging two existing peace processes from Luanda and Nairobi to focus on achieving an immediate ceasefire and providing humanitarian aid, as well as ensuring security at Goma airport.
DRC Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka reported that over 7,000 individuals have been killed since the beginning of January, highlighting the desperate situation in the region. The report of casualties emphasizes the urgency for international and regional cooperation to stabilize the DRC fundamental for humanitarian assistance.
The appointment of former leaders from Ethiopia, Kenya, and Nigeria signals a renewed commitment to achieving peace in the DRC amidst escalating violence from the M23 rebel group. Ongoing investigations by the ICC underscore the severity of the situation, with a significant death toll reported. Regional blocs are unifying efforts to establish a ceasefire and secure humanitarian aid as critical steps towards stabilizing the region.
Original Source: www.ena.et
