DR Congo and Rwanda to sign peace accord on June 27 in Washington, marking a critical diplomatic breakthrough aimed at halting fighting in eastern Congo. This US-brokered deal addresses lingering tensions tied to the M23 rebel surge and seeks to bring security to the mineral-rich Kivu provinces.
Draft Agreement Highlights
Technical teams from Kinshasa and Kigali finalized a draft agreement after three days of negotiations supported by the U.S., setting the stage for a ministerial signing on June 27.
Key provisions include:
- Respecting territorial integrity
- A complete ceasefire
- Disarmament and conditional integration of non-state armed groups, including M23
- Establishing a joint security mechanism
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Regional and Global Implications
- The conflict displaced over 7 million people and destabilised regions like Goma and Bukavu since M23’s resurgence in early 2025.
- A successful accord could unlock Western investment in minerals like cobalt, copper, tantalum, and lithium, helping reduce reliance on China while bolstering Congo’s economy.
- The U.S., represented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has taken a leading role in mediating this agreement—complemented by earlier Qatar-led peace efforts.
Challenges Ahead
- Previous deals—including agreements facilitated by Qatar and Angola—have stalled due to lack of political commitment at the ministerial level.
- Congo continues to allege Rwandan military backing for M23 rebels—a charge Kigali denies, citing defence against Hutu militias.
- The accord’s effectiveness hinges on genuine disarmament and enforcement at the local level.
DR Congo and Rwanda to sign peace accord on June 27 represents a pivotal moment in resolving decades of instability in eastern DRC. Success depends on transparent implementation, regional collaboration, and sustained international support. For communities in Nairobi, Kigali, Bukavu, and beyond, this agreement could mark the beginning of long-term peace and economic revival.
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