Efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have hit a setback. A high-profile meeting scheduled in Luanda, Angola, to discuss solutions to the disputes between the two neighboring countries has failed to materialize.
The meeting, convened by Angolan President João Lourenço in Luanda, was expected to bring together leaders from Rwanda and the DRC. However, neither Rwandan President Paul Kagame nor DRC President Félix Tshisekedi attended the planned dialogue.
This marked a major setback in the peace process led by Angola and former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, who has been spearheading efforts to mediate the crisis. Without Kagame’s presence, the meeting was postponed indefinitely.
The long-standing tensions between Rwanda and the DRC are fueled by mutual accusations of supporting rebel groups. Rwanda accuses the DRC government of backing the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a group Kigali claims is working to destabilize its government.
On the other hand, the DRC accuses Rwanda of sponsoring the M23 rebel group, which is active in Eastern Congo. This region, rich in natural resources, has been a hotbed of conflict, with over 100 armed groups reportedly operating there.
The Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement following the failed talks, accusing the DRC of discrimination against Rwanda. The statement emphasized that meaningful dialogue is impossible in the current climate of mutual distrust and accusations.
Eastern DRC, a region abundant in minerals and other resources, has become a flashpoint for conflict. The DRC accuses Rwanda of using the M23 group to exploit the area’s wealth, while Rwanda alleges that the DRC harbors FDLR fighters aiming to overthrow Kagame’s government.
The indefinite postponement of the Luanda talks leaves the future of peace negotiations uncertain. Both countries continue to face international pressure to resolve the conflict peacefully.
The ongoing tensions between Rwanda and the DRC pose a significant challenge to regional stability in Central Africa. With both sides trading accusations and no immediate path to dialogue, the prospect of a peaceful resolution remains unclear. The international community must intensify efforts to mediate and bring lasting peace to the region.
