Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), two neighboring countries with a long history of strained relations have signed an agreement to respect each other’s sovereignty and draft a peace deal by 2 May 2025. The agreement was signed by the countries’ foreign ministers during a ceremony recently held in Washington, attended by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

The signing marks a significant step toward easing tensions that some political analysts had feared could escalate into what they call “Africa’s World War 4.”

In recent months, thousands of civilians have been displaced as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels seized large swathes of mineral-rich territory in eastern DRC. After suffering territorial losses, the government in Kinshasa turned to the United States for assistance, offering access to key minerals in return.

Given the historically poor relations between the two nations, the Washington meeting and the commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue is being hailed as a major breakthrough. According to the agreement, both sides anticipate significant investments facilitated by the US government and the private sector.

However, despite the progress, reports indicate that fighting continued in North Kivu province last Friday. Both the DRC government and the M23 group have reiterated their commitment to peace, expressing hopes that a permanent ceasefire can soon be achieved. Officials in eastern DRC estimate that at least 7,000 people have been killed since January 2025, as violence escalated with an unprecedented offensive by the M23.

The DRC has consistently accused Rwanda of supporting and arming the M23 rebels, accusations that both the United Nations and the United States have backed although Rwanda continues to deny any involvement.

Efforts by SADC (Southern African Development Community) and East African nations to mediate the conflict had previously failed, with SADC troops deployed to Goma eventually retreating to their home countries. Despite ongoing challenges, the newly signed agreement offers a glimmer of hope for a more peaceful future between Rwanda and the DRC.