Prévot advocates for greater African involvement in eastern Congo peace efforts

Belgium Calls for Greater African Involvement in DRC Peace Efforts

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot has urged stronger involvement from African nations and the African Union in efforts to end fighting in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). His appeal came on Monday as he began a regional tour, shortly after a key peace deadline passed without agreement, reports 24brussels.

Speaking in Congo-Brazzaville, Prévot emphasized that international mediation alone would not suffice in bringing an end to the violence in eastern DRC. “We cannot afford to add yet another agreement to the long list of treaties that fail to stop the bloodshed,” he remarked.

Negotiations held in Washington and Doha, supported by the United States and Qatar, aimed to finalize a peace accord by 18 August between the Congolese government and M23 rebels, who are backed by Rwanda. However, despite these efforts, no agreement was reached, and hostilities have escalated in South Kivu.

“We cannot afford to add yet another agreement to the long list of treaties that fail to stop the bloodshed”

Prévot drew parallels between the ongoing conflict and the war in Ukraine, asserting that any resolution in DRC must involve regional voices. “We would never accept a peace deal in Europe without Ukraine or the Europeans. The same is true here. African players must be at the table,” he stated.

This sentiment was echoed in Kinshasa by aid organizations operating in the region. Emmanuel Lampaert, Médecins Sans Frontières’ head for Central Africa, informed the Belgian delegation that the outcomes of the Washington and Doha discussions are not reflected on the ground, where extreme violence persists, with conditions even deteriorating in some areas.

Lampaert highlighted increasing strain on humanitarian operations in North and South Kivu since early August, noting that hospitals are overwhelmed and fundamental services like water, health, and education remain “politicised” due to local power struggles.

Additionally, he raised alarms about a resurgence of cholera and the ongoing threat of sexual violence in the region.

This marks Prévot’s second visit to the area within four months. He met with Congo-Brazzaville’s President Denis Sassou Nguesso on Monday and is set to continue his journey to Kinshasa for discussions with President Félix Tshisekedi.