Somalia Committed to Supporting Regional Efforts to Restore Peace in DRC

GOOBJOOG NEWS | DAR ES SALAAM: Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting regional efforts to restore peace and stability in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Speaking at a regional summit, President Mohamud emphasized Somalia’s role as a member of the United Nations Security Council in strengthening Africa’s response to continental challenges.

“The conflict in eastern DRC is a humanitarian disaster that requires urgent action to achieve lasting peace. Joint diplomacy from regional organizations is essential in reducing tensions, and solutions must be sought through dialogue and understanding rather than warfare,” he stated.

The president reiterated Somalia’s support for peace initiatives led by the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). He also expressed Somalia’s readiness to contribute to conflict resolution in the DRC, leveraging its experience in reconciliation and peacebuilding.

President Mohamud underscored the summit’s significance, stressing Somalia’s commitment to promoting African-led solutions to regional crises.

“The conflict in eastern DRC demands immediate and sustained action. Joint diplomacy between the EAC and SADC is critical in easing tensions. Sustainable solutions must come through dialogue and mutual understanding, not military confrontation,” he added.

The crisis in eastern DRC has been exacerbated by the resurgence of the M23 armed group, which has seized large areas, including the strategic city of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province.

The group’s offensive has left thousands dead and displaced countless civilians, worsening an already dire humanitarian situation. M23 is believed to receive backing from Rwanda, though Kigali denies providing military support.