Senegal’s President Engages Kagame and Tshisekedi in Talks to Ease DRC-Rwanda Tensions

Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has stepped into ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He said he held phone discussions with Rwandan President Paul Kagame and DRC’s Félix Tshisekedi about the conflict and possible paths to peace.

I had fruitful phone discussions with Presidents Paul Kagame and Félix Tshisekedi on the worrying situation in eastern DRC. I wanted to assess how events are unfolding and, together with both leaders, explore paths for open dialogue towards lasting peace in the region,” Faye said.

“Senegal remains engaged in efforts for stability and security in Africa and the world,” he added.

The DRC has struggled with years of conflict, worsened by armed groups and foreign involvement. President Félix Tshisekedi announced in a televised address on Wednesday night that DRC will intensify military operations against M23 rebels, who now control much of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. He stated that the army was carrying out a vigorous and coordinated response against the rebels and their alleged backers, Rwanda. He also criticised the international community for its inaction amid the worsening crisis.

Meanwhile, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) has reaffirmed its support for the DRC. After suffering heavy losses last week – when around a dozen soldiers from South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania were killed as M23 rebels advanced in Goma- SADC leaders agreed to continue their military mission.

Tensions have also escalated between Rwanda and South Africa. Kagame accused South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and his government of misrepresenting facts about the conflict. Kagame said that if South Africa preferred confrontation, Rwanda would respond accordingly. In response to Faye’s efforts, however, Kagame said:

“[I] had a fruitful conversation with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and exchanged on the importance of continental collaboration towards a sustainable solution to the security situation in the region and beyond. Rwanda looks forward to continued bilateral cooperation with Senegal for the shared prosperity of our people.”

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