Kenya Calls For Immediate Ceasefire In DRC Conflict

      By Lisbeth Micheni Kenya 

Kenyan President William Ruto, has urged all armed groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to immediately cease hostilities.

Speaking at a regional peace summit in Tanzania on Saturday, Ruto emphasized the need for an urgent ceasefire to create conditions for meaningful dialogue and a long-term peace agreement.

“We urge all parties to enforce the ceasefire, particularly calling on the M23 rebel group to stop advancing and on the DRC’s armed forces to refrain from retaliatory attacks,” Ruto said.

As the current chair of the East African Community (EAC), he stressed that peace can only be achieved through diplomacy and not continued fighting.

The summit, attended by leaders from the EAC and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), included Rwandan President Paul Kagame and DRC President Felix Tshisekedi.

The conflict, fueled by the M23 militia allegedly backed by Rwanda has displaced thousands and caused widespread violence.

The United States has also warned of possible sanctions against officials from both Rwanda and the DRC over their roles in the crisis.

Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict.