FP-ICGLR praises US peace deal for DRC

DR CONGO: THE Forum of Parliaments of Member States of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (FPICGLR) has applauded the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Rwanda for signing a US-brokered peace agreement aimed at ending years of conflict in eastern DRC.

Secretary General of FP-ICGLR, Dr Deo Mwapinga said the development is a ‘major breakthrough.’

The agreement, signed on 27 June 2025, marks a significant step toward restoring peace and stability in one of Africa’s most volatile regions.

“This is not just a diplomatic milestone, it is a turning point for millions who have suffered in silence. We commend both nations for demonstrating political will and choosing dialogue over division,” said Dr Mwapinga.

The Forum expressed particular optimism that the deal will improve the lives of vulnerable populations, especially women and children, who have borne the brunt of the region’s instability.

“This agreement offers hope for the protection of our most vulnerable women, girls and children. It is our sincere expectation that the commitments made will be honoured not just in word, but in practice,” he added.

Dr Mwapinga also recognised the efforts of the United States in facilitating the talks and acknowledged the parallel mediation by the State of Qatar, currently ongoing in Doha, involving representatives of the DRC government and the M23 rebel group.

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“The Doha process is vital. Its complementarity with the current agreement is essential in turning paper promises into people-centred peace,” he noted.

Ambassador Dr Mwapinga, a Tanzanian national, was elected Secretary General of FP-ICGLR earlier this year, becoming the first Tanzanian to serve in the role.

Last week, he was officially appointed to the status of Ambassador by the President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Tanzania has played a significant and longstanding role in regional peacekeeping and mediation efforts across the Great Lakes.

As a key troopcontributing country to the United Nations Force Intervention Brigade (FIB) operating in eastern DRC, Tanzania has actively supported military stabilisation efforts targeting armed groups threatening civilian populations.

Beyond its military contribution, Tanzania has also served as a diplomatic anchor in the region, advocating for peaceful resolution of conflicts through its engagements in both the East African Community (EAC) and the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR).