Rwanda and DRC resume Luanda talks to resolve regional security issues

On October 12, 2024, delegations from Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) meet once again in Luanda, Angola, for talks aimed at addressing persistent security challenges in the region, particularly in eastern DRC. This new round of discussions follows earlier talks held on September 14, 2024, which ended without any concrete results.

The Rwandan delegation was led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, while the DRC delegation was headed by Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner.

In the previous talks, Minister Kayikwamba refused to sign a joint report that outlined a strategy for dismantling the FDLR, an armed rebel group accused of destabilizing the region.

The major point of contention arose when Minister Kayikwamba demanded that dismantling the FDLR should be tied to Rwanda easing its defensive measures.

This disagreement stalled the process, despite the fact that security experts from both sides had agreed on a detailed plan to neutralize the rebel group.

Minister Amb. Nduhungirehe revealed that before the meeting, Minister Kayikwamba had received a phone call from President Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC, instructing her not to sign the report.

"As we were about to conclude a straightforward meeting in Luanda, Minister Kayikwamba, following directives from her President via phone, outright refused to approve the agreed-upon plan in front of her colleagues and the experts," Min. Nduhungirehe said.

Although the previous talks failed to yield results, both countries’ representatives, along with the mediator Angola, have committed to continuing discussions in search of a lasting solution to the region’s security issues.

Angola, serving as a key mediator, has reiterated its dedication to facilitating dialogue between Rwanda and the DRC. The goal is to eventually bring together Presidents João Lourenço of Angola, Paul Kagame of Rwanda, and Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC for a high-level summit where they will sign a peace agreement aimed at providing a sustainable resolution to the conflict, assuming both sides reach a shared understanding.

These renewed talks offer a glimmer of hope for peace in the region, where security concerns have long plagued local populations.

Angola’s continued role as a mediator demonstrates its commitment to fostering stability, and there is cautious optimism that the political will from both Rwanda and the DRC could pave the way for a lasting resolution to the security crisis in eastern DRC.