Kagame shared the update via X account on Thursday night, stating: 'Earlier today, I had a productive conversation with President João Lourenço and discussed the need for a long-term and sustainable solution to the ongoing situation in the DRC.'
He further noted that both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working with other regional stakeholders to find a lasting solution while 'deepening strong bilateral partnership going forward'.
The discussion comes amid escalating violence in eastern DRC, particularly in North Kivu province, where the M23 rebel group has taken control of several areas, including the provincial capital, Goma.
Earlier this week, M23 forces seized Goma, forcing the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) and their allies to either surrender or flee, with some troops seeking refuge in Rwanda.
In response to the crisis, East African Community (EAC) heads of state convened for an emergency summit on January 29, 2025.
Following the summit, regional leaders expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation, citing violent protests, attacks on embassies of EAC member states, arson, looting, and other unrest.
The leaders called for an immediate ceasefire to allow humanitarian assistance for affected communities. They also urged all parties to engage in dialogue and pressed the DRC government to hold talks with M23 and other armed groups advocating for their rights.
During the meeting, President Kagame condemned cross-border gunfire from Goma that had killed Rwandan civilians, warning that Rwanda would take necessary action in response.
He also criticized the involvement of foreign nations, particularly South Africa, accusing them of being manipulated by DRC President Félix Tshisekedi. Kagame questioned Tshisekedi's insistence on war despite its repeated failure to resolve the conflict.
Meanwhile, during their first press conference on January 30, 2025, after taking control of Goma, leaders of the AFC/M23 coalition announced plans to advance toward Kinshasa to overthrow Tshisekedi's regime.
This development comes despite Tshisekedi's recent declaration that he would intensify military offensives against M23 and called on all Congolese citizens to support the fight.
Théophile Niyitegeka
