Somalia Backs Regional Push for Lasting Peace in DRC

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia has called for a comprehensive peace plan to resolve the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), emphasizing the need for an inclusive approach that involves all warring parties, the United Nations, and the African Union.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre made the remarks while participating in a virtual summit of East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) heads of state, which focused on the escalating security crisis in eastern DRC.

The meeting, co-chaired by Kenyan President William Ruto and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, addressed the worsening humanitarian situation and sought urgent solutions to end the violence.

During the session, Prime Minister Barre highlighted the regional responsibility in tackling the crisis, stressing that immediate action is necessary to prevent further suffering among civilians caught in the conflict.

Following the discussions, a joint communiqué announced the formation of a high-level mediation committee composed of five former presidents, tasked with finding a lasting political and security solution for the DRC.

The committee includes former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, former South African President Kgalema Motlanthe, former Central African Republic President Catherine Samba-Panza, and former Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde.

The formation of this committee signals a renewed commitment by regional leaders to tackle the DRC’s prolonged instability, which has fueled humanitarian crises and displaced millions.

As diplomatic efforts gain momentum, Somalia’s call for an all-inclusive peace strategy reinforces the belief that sustainable stability in the DRC will require broad cooperation, not just within Africa but also with international partners.

With growing fears of increased militant activity, all eyes are now on the mediation committee as it begins its mission to restore peace in one of Africa’s most volatile regions.