These talks aim to resolve ongoing conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the broader Great Lakes region.
The decision to merge the Luanda and Nairobi talks was made during a meeting chaired by the Presidents of Kenya and Zimbabwe, bringing together the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
The Luanda talks initially aimed to mediate tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, while the Nairobi talks focused on addressing internal Congolese conflicts.
However, both processes stalled due to a lack of commitment from the Kinshasa government. By merging these efforts, regional leaders hope to achieve lasting peace and stability in eastern DRC and the surrounding region.
To facilitate the process, five prominent mediators have been appointed: Olusegun Obasanjo, Uhuru Kenyatta, Catherine Samba Panza, Sahle-Work Zewde, and Kgalema Motlanthe. Their expertise is expected to be instrumental in guiding the talks toward a peaceful resolution.
On March 24, 2025, the Heads of State instructed EAC Chairperson President Dr. William Samoei Ruto and SADC's President Emmerson Mnangagwa to engage with these mediators within a week before the talks officially begin.
According to local media in Zimbabwe, Prof. Murwira confirmed on March 30 that preparations were well advanced, and the meeting between Dr. Ruto, Mnangagwa, and the mediators was expected within the set timeframe.
He expressed confidence that the high-level meeting could take place at any time, noting that the agenda had been finalized by March 28, and official letters had been sent to the mediators.
The only step remaining was for the regional leaders to deliver their opening remarks.
Ambassador Albert Chimbindi, Zimbabwean Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary, also assured that efforts were being made to ensure that the Luanda-Nairobi talks commence as soon as possible.
While the exact date of the meeting had not been finalized, he acknowledged the ongoing commitment to making the talks a success.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/final-preparations-underway-for-the-luanda-nairobi-talks
