Despite international calls for restraint, the DRC has continued to launch artillery attacks into neighboring Rwanda. In June 2024, two 122mm rockets were fired from the Bunagana area in North Kivu, landing in Rwanda's Musanze District.
These attacks, though causing no immediate casualties, instilled fear among the local population. Such incidents are not isolated; similar shellings have occurred over the years, yet the DRC's armed forces persist in these provocations.
The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), despite its extensive presence, has remained conspicuously silent, failing to condemn these violations of Rwandan sovereignty.
In a troubling development, Tshisekedi is reportedly preparing for renewed military offensives by recruiting mercenaries from South America. Eric Prince, a known private military contractor, is allegedly facilitating these recruitments.
This move raises serious concerns about the potential for increased violence and the involvement of foreign combatants in the conflict. Such actions not only exacerbate the existing tensions but also undermine efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution.
On 18 March 2025, a significant diplomatic engagement took place in Doha, Qatar, where DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame met to discuss a ceasefire in eastern DRC.
The summit, mediated by Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, resulted in a joint statement calling for an "immediate ceasefire" and a commitment to continue discussions for lasting peace.
However, the commitment to peace remains tenuous. Following the Doha talks, M23 rebel group announced a ceasefire and repositioned its forces from the town of Walikale. In response, DRC's Armed Forces (FARDC) refrained from attacking M23 positions, marking a rare instance of restraint.
Despite these developments, DRC's government continues to accuse Rwanda of supporting M23 rebels, stating that its military presence is purely defensive. This persistent blame game complicates efforts to establish trust and move forward with peace initiatives.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions between DRC and Rwanda. The United Nations Security Council has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urged both nations to resume peace negotiations.
Additionally, the United States has been facilitating peace talks, aiming to broker a deal that would address the conflict and promote regional stability.
However, the success of these initiatives hinges on the willingness of Tshisekedi to engage in meaningful dialogue and adhere to agreements. Without genuine commitment from Tshisekedi, the prospects for lasting peace remain bleak.
Tshisekedi's reluctance to fully embrace peace initiatives and its continued military provocations pose significant challenges to regional stability.
While diplomatic efforts are ongoing, the path to peace requires a genuine commitment from all parties to cease hostilities, engage in constructive dialogue, and uphold international agreements.
Only through collective effort and accountability can the Great Lakes region hope to achieve lasting peace and security.
Mwungeri Epa
