A U.S. official announced on Monday that Congo and Rwanda have jointly proposed a peace plan to end the conflict in eastern Congo, a region abundant in resources. Massad Boulos, U.S. President Donald Trump’s senior adviser for Africa and the Middle East, expressed appreciation for the draft text from both countries, describing it as a significant development.
Details of the proposal, such as potential concessions on U.S. access to critical minerals in the region, were not immediately disclosed. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has previously hinted at offering mineral access in exchange for U.S. assistance in pacifying the ongoing hostilities.
The conflict in eastern Congo, which has endured for decades, intensified in January when M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, captured the key city of Goma, followed by Bukavu in February. The violence has claimed around 3,000 lives and raised concerns of a wider regional war.
With numerous armed groups competing for control in the mining-rich area near Rwanda’s border, eastern Congo has been plagued by instability, resulting in one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises. The displacement of over 7 million people, including 100,000 this year alone, underscores the urgent need for a peaceful resolution.
As the world’s top cobalt producer, Congo holds significant reserves of other minerals like gold, diamonds, and copper. The latest peace proposal follows a recent pledge by Congo and Rwanda, overseen by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, to work towards a peace agreement.
Rwanda’s foreign minister revealed plans for upcoming negotiations with Congo in May to finalize the peace deal, with hopes of a signing ceremony involving the respective presidents at the White House in June. The involvement of the U.S., along with promises of substantial investment once security is established for American companies in eastern Congo, aims to quell the longstanding violence.
While proponents see a peace agreement as a gateway to economic growth and stability, some analysts caution against potential risks like exacerbating militia activities, exploitation, and human rights violations associated with the region’s mineral trade. Additionally, Rwandan authorities disclosed ongoing discussions with the U.S. on the prospect of hosting deported migrants.
