Rwanda’s ongoing commitment to promote lasting peace in DRC

By IGIHE

On 5 June 2023 at 10:42

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The Government of Rwanda has reaffirmed its commitment to contributing to regional efforts aimed at achieving durable peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). As part of this commitment, Rwanda has agreed to provide contributions to the East African Community (EAC) fund dedicated to peace initiatives. The regional bloc is raising funds to support initiatives focused on resolving the security crisis in the eastern part of the DRC.

The East African Community Regional Force (EACRF), which was deployed in eastern DRC last year, requires sufficient resources to fulfill its mandate.

The funding for these peacekeeping operations is expected to come from contributions by EAC member states and donors’ aid.

During an extraordinary EAC Heads of State Summit held in Bujumbura recently, Dr. Peter Mathuki, the Secretary-General of the bloc, announced that some countries have already provided their contributions.

In addition to partner countries such as Angola and Senegal, he disclosed that Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda have provided US$1 million. Meanwhile, Dr. Mathuki said that Rwanda has also pledged financial support.

The funding for peace initiatives will be channeled through the EAC Peace Facility.

Rwanda has welcomed this initiative and expressed its commitment to support it, although the exact amount of its pledge has not been specified, according to Alain Mukuralinda, the Deputy Government Spokesperson.

Despite the bloc’s determination to achieve lasting peace in eastern DRC, the availability of financial resources remains a significant challenge that requires sustainable solutions.

The EAC troops were initially deployed to the DRC for a six-month mandate starting from September 8, 2022. Their mandate was extended for an additional six months after its expiration on March 7, 2023.

DRC has been accusing Rwanda of backing M23 rebels, allegations which the latter refutes and calls for attention to draw emphasis on the real cause of security crisis in DRC.

Instead, Rwanda has advised the DRC to focus on resolving its internal problems rather than seeking excuses.

Rwanda is a member of the EAC but its troops are not part of the EACRF contingents due to the DRC’s decision to boycott their intervention.

Despite the situation, Rwanda has consistently expressed its willingness to contribute to efforts aimed at addressing the security problems in the DRC.