S-African president suggests solution to DR Congo war

(MENAFN) President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa's unwavering commitment to achieving a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Speaking after a Heads of State summit in Tanzania, Ramaphosa described the gathering as a “beacon of hope” for the DRC, underscoring South Africa's dedication to regional peace and stability.

The summit, which included the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC), aimed to address the escalating security crisis in the DRC and explore sustainable Political solutions. South Africa, a member of both SADC and the African Union, has long supported peace efforts in the DRC, contributing troops to the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) and the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC).

The tragic loss of 14 South African soldiers during peacekeeping operations, coupled with the M23 rebel group's control over the key city of Goma, highlights the growing risks of the conflict. Ramaphosa reiterated South Africa’s belief that diplomacy is the most effective long-term solution to the crisis.

At the summit, leaders called for an immediate ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid to reach affected civilians and to create space for direct negotiations among all parties, including the M23 group. This will be facilitated under the frameworks of the Luanda and Nairobi processes. The summit also reaffirmed the sovereignty of the DRC and called for the withdrawal of foreign armed forces from the country.

Ramaphosa stressed the importance of including all conflict parties in negotiations to ensure credible and lasting peace, while also expressing South Africa’s solidarity with the Congolese people in their desire for peace and security.

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