Regional civil society organisations have petitioned the heads of states from Southern and East African to put in place mechanisms to protect civilians in the war-torn eastern Congo.
In a statement addressed to the African Union, the East African Community, the Southern African Development Community heads of state, the East African Civil society Organisation Forum (EACSOF) wants the leaders to implement and oversee a ceasefire, ensure unhindered humanitarian access and restore essential services in the affected area.
“We recognise the swift response of African leaders through the AU, EAC, and SADC in addressing the crisis. However, given the scale of the crisis, diplomatic efforts must move beyond commitments to urgent, coordinated, and enforceable actions that will de-escalate the violence and lay the foundation for a sustainable resolution,” said Lulu Alex, EACSOFCEO in a statement.
“We call on EAC and SADC leaders to take decisive, coordinated, and responsible measures to halt the violence, enhance diplomatic engagement, and provide humanitarian relief while addressing the root causes of instability.”
The violence has led to mass displacement, indiscriminate attacks on civilians, famine, and a surge in sexual and gender-based violence, disproportionately affecting women and children.”
The growing hostilities between neighbouring States have heightened the risk of a broader regional conflict that threatens not only peace and stability in East and Southern Africa but also economic integration and cooperation.
The civil society wants the leaders to strengthen the Luanda Roadmap (2022) and the Nairobi Process (2022)..
“The DRC government must engage in structured, transparent, and inclusive dialogue, ensuring that all actors - including non-state armed groups - are part of the peace process,” Ms Alex said.
“The EAC Heads of State must ensure that all parties fully commit to peace agreements and impose measurable consequences for violations. Regional peace and security frameworks under the EAC Treaty (1999) and relevant AU Protocols must be fully enforced.”
