Rwanda, DR Congo Reach Breakthrough Draft Peace Deal to End Prolonged Conflict

In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, officials from Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have agreed on a draft peace deal aimed at ending decades of violent conflict in eastern Congo’s mineral-rich region.

Facilitated by the United States and Qatar, the agreement lays out a framework for the “disengagement, disarmament, and conditional integration” of armed groups, including the M23 rebels, who have intensified the crisis this year. It also establishes a joint security mechanism designed to prevent future hostilities and promote lasting stability.

Technical teams initialled the draft on Wednesday, setting the stage for a formal signing ceremony next Friday in Washington, expected to be witnessed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

The US State Department described the accord as the culmination of “constructive dialogue” over political, security, and economic issues during a three-day meeting between the two nations’ officials.

This deal builds on an earlier agreement signed in late April, in which both countries pledged to respect each other’s sovereignty and work swiftly towards peace.

The conflict, fueled by rebel groups and ethnic tensions, escalated earlier this year when M23 forces—allegedly supported by Rwanda—captured strategic cities including Goma and Bukavu.

Rwanda denies backing M23, maintaining its military presence is a protective measure against armed groups like the FDLR, linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.

The recent surge in fighting has led to thousands of deaths and displaced hundreds of thousands of civilians, exacerbating the region’s humanitarian crisis.

The peace deal, if implemented effectively, could unlock billions in Western investments aimed at stabilizing and developing the mineral-rich eastern Congo, providing hope for long-term peace and economic growth.