President Ruto Urges Peace and Dialogue at EAC-SADC Summit on DRC Crisis

Dar es Salaam, February 8, 2025 – In a pivotal address at the joint summit of the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC), Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

President Ruto, co-chairing the summit alongside Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa, emphasized the dire need for peace in a region that has seen conflict for over two decades. The statement highlighted the tragic human cost of the ongoing conflict, including massive displacement and the recruitment of child soldiers, underscoring the urgency for action to protect civilians and restore stability.

Key points from Ruto’s address

• Ceasefire Demand: A direct appeal to the M23 rebel group to halt their advance and for the DRC’s armed forces to cease retaliatory actions, aiming to pave the way for dialogue.
• Diplomatic Approach: Acknowledging the complexity of the conflict, Ruto advocated for a diplomatic solution rather than military, stressing the importance of addressing root causes while respecting DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
• Humanitarian Crisis: The speech shed light on the humanitarian disaster unfolding, with millions displaced and at risk, urging the international community to support regional peace efforts.
• Unified Regional Action: Building on past peace efforts, Ruto proposed a unified EAC-SADC initiative to tackle the crisis, suggesting the establishment of a strong secretariat for coordination and enforcement of peace agreements.
• Call for Global Solidarity: He called for international support aligned with regional efforts to ensure the security and development of the DRC.

President Ruto concluded by expressing gratitude to Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan for hosting the summit and to all leaders for their commitment. He emphasized the collective responsibility of the region to foster peace, development, and integration, closing with thanks in Swahili, French, Portuguese, and English, symbolizing Africa’s diverse yet united front against the crisis.

This summit marks a critical juncture in the ongoing efforts to resolve one of Africa’s longest-standing conflicts, with hopes pinned on the collaborative resolve of regional leaders to bring about lasting change in the DRC.