In a monumental step towards securing lasting peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, along with former leaders from Kenya and Ethiopia, has been appointed to spearhead the peace process aimed at ending years of conflict in the region.
The newly formed peace team, including ex-President Mwai Kibaki of Kenya and former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, will oversee diplomatic negotiations, facilitate discussions among conflicting parties, and implement peace-building strategies throughout the DRC. Their leadership brings decades of experience in navigating complex political landscapes and brokering successful peace agreements across Africa.
The peace process will focus on addressing the root causes of violence, promoting reconciliation, and ensuring the protection of civilians in conflict zones. The three esteemed leaders are expected to work closely with regional organizations, international partners, and Congolese stakeholders to bring stability to the eastern provinces of the country, where violent clashes have displaced millions and created a dire humanitarian crisis.
The United Nations (UN) and the African Union (AU) have expressed strong support for the peace initiative, recognizing the critical role that former African leaders play in mediating conflicts within the continent. Both organizations have pledged their commitment to assist the peace process with technical and financial resources, while urging all parties involved to prioritize dialogue and cease hostilities.
Speaking on behalf of the peace initiative, former President Obasanjo emphasized, “Our goal is to bring an end to the suffering of the Congolese people and ensure that the country can begin the long road to peace and prosperity. We believe in the power of African solutions for African problems, and we are committed to doing all we can to foster a peaceful and secure DRC.”
The appointment of the former African leaders follows the increasing call for a renewed effort to address the ongoing conflict, which has led to significant displacement, loss of life, and economic disruption. The peace process aims not only to address the immediate security concerns but also to promote long-term political and social stability in one of Africa’s most resource-rich but conflict-ridden nations.