Wayne Lumbasi
In a major step toward stabilizing eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Africa’s key regional organizations have merged their peace initiatives to create a unified mediation framework.
The East African Community (EAC), Southern African Development Community (SADC), and African Union (AU) have consolidated their efforts to ensure a coordinated and stronger approach to the ongoing conflict.
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Previously, peace talks operated through parallel processes and most notably the Nairobi and Luanda initiatives resulting in fragmented efforts. The merger combines these into a single joint secretariat, headquartered at the AU Commission in Addis Ababa, streamlining communication and decision-making.
A newly appointed five-member Panel of Facilitators, consisting of experienced former leaders, will oversee negotiations, working closely with all conflict parties. This unified approach was endorsed at a joint virtual summit of EAC and SADC leaders, co-chaired by Kenyan President William Ruto and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Co-chair of the SADC/EAC Extraordinary Summit on the DRC peace process President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe speaks during the virtual Joint Extraordinary Summit of the EAC and SADC
This consolidation reflects Africa’s commitment to owning the peace process in the DRC, aiming for sustainable and inclusive dialogue.
The volatile security situation in eastern DRC with persistent violence and humanitarian crises demands a cohesive strategy, which this merger seeks to deliver.
President William Ruto during a Joint Virtual Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC)
Success hinges on active engagement from the Congolese government, regional actors, and international partners. This unified framework represents hope for a more effective and lasting resolution to one of Africa’s most challenging conflicts.
