In a landmark step toward peace and regional stability, the African Union Commission has welcomed the signing of a peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Rwanda, marking a significant turning point in decades of tension in the Great Lakes region.

AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat praised the political maturity and leadership of President Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda for choosing dialogue and solidarity over conflict. The deal is seen as a milestone for African-led peace efforts.

The Chairperson commended President João Lourenço of Angola for his pivotal mediating role and acknowledged the essential backing of regional bodies such as the East African Community (EAC), the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

He also expressed deep gratitude to the State of Qatar for creating a conducive environment for the negotiations, and to the United States for its diplomatic support in steering the parties toward a peaceful outcome.

Reaffirming the African Union’s full support for the implementation of the peace accord, the Chairperson called on all stakeholders, including armed groups, civil society, and international partners, to uphold their commitments to lasting peace.

This agreement is a beacon of what African unity and cooperation can achieve, reiterating the AU’s dedication to supporting post-conflict recovery and reconciliation, in line with its vision of Silencing the Guns by 2030 and the broader goals of Agenda 2063.