KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of Congo (AP) — Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé has embarked on his first mission as the African Union’s new mediator in the conflict-ridden eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Gnassingbé met with DRC President Félix Tshisekedi in Kinshasa on Wednesday, marking a crucial step in his efforts to broker peace in the region. The meeting comes after Gnassingbé’s appointment last month, replacing Angolan President João Lourenço.
The conflict in eastern DRC has been raging for nearly three years, with various rebel groups and militias involved. Gnassingbé’s mission will focus on finding a peaceful resolution to the crisis, which has resulted in significant violence and displacement.
According to sources, Gnassingbé and Tshisekedi discussed the ongoing conflict and potential solutions during their meeting. The DRC presidency acknowledged Gnassingbé’s appointment, expressing hope that it will bring an end to the cycle of violence in the region.
Gnassingbé’s efforts will not be without challenges, however. Other stakeholders, including Qatar, the East African Community, and the Southern African Development Community, are also involved in peace efforts. Qatar has facilitated discussions between the M23 rebel group and the Congolese government, while the EAC and SADC have appointed co-facilitators to follow the file.
The road to peace in eastern DRC is complex, with multiple actors and interests at play.