Heads of State from the East African Community (EAC) convened an emergency summit yesterday to address the escalating conflict and deteriorating security situation in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The 24th Extra-Ordinary Summit, held virtually, urged an immediate and unconditional ceasefire by all parties involved in the fighting.
The leaders expressed deep concern over the intensifying violence, which has led to significant loss of life, a humanitarian crisis, and widespread suffering, particularly among women and children.
In a communique released after the summit, they offered condolences to the affected families and called for humanitarian access to the impacted populations.
The EAC Heads of State also condemned the recent attacks on diplomatic missions and embassies in the DRC, emphasising the need to protect diplomatic personnel and property.
They urged the DRC government to ensure the safety and security of all diplomatic missions within its borders.
A key outcome of the summit was the call for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The leaders encouraged the DRC government to engage in direct dialogue with all stakeholders, including armed groups, to address their grievances and find a sustainable path to peace and stability.
Recognising the ongoing efforts of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in the DRC, the EAC Heads of State proposed a joint EAC-SADC summit to develop a comprehensive and coordinated approach to the crisis.
The current Chairperson of the EAC was mandated to consult with the SADC Chairperson to convene this joint summit in the coming days.
The EAC leaders reiterated their commitment to supporting the DRC in its efforts to achieve lasting peace and security. They emphasised the importance of regional cooperation and collaboration in addressing the complex challenges facing the Eastern DRC.
The summit, chaired by EAC Chairperson, Dr. William Ruto (Kenya), saw the participation of Hassan Sheikh Mohamud (Somalia), Samia Suluhu Hassan (Tanzania), Évariste Ndayishimiye (Burundi), Salva Kiir Mayardit (South Sudan), Paul Kagame (Rwanda), and Yoweri Kaguta Museveni (Uganda).
The leaders met in a “warm and cordial atmosphere,” demonstrating a united front in their commitment to resolving the crisis in the DRC.
The communique concluded by underscoring the urgency with which the EAC is treating the situation in the Eastern DRC.
The region now awaits the proposed joint summit with SADC, with hopes that a unified strategy can bring an end to the ongoing conflict and alleviate the suffering of the Congolese people.
