Kenyan President Ruto Calls for Ceasefire in Eastern DRC as M23 Rebels Seize More Territory

Regional Leaders Meet to Discuss Escalating Conflict in Eastern DRC

Amid growing violence in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Kenyan President William Ruto has called for an immediate ceasefire, urging all armed groups to halt hostilities. His appeal came during a regional peace summit in Tanzania, attended by leaders from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

The summit saw participation from the presidents of Somalia, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, among others. Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi also joined the talks, despite deep tensions between the two nations over Rwanda’s alleged support for M23 rebels.

Ruto emphasized:

“We stand together to call on all parties to actualize the ceasefire, and specifically on the M23 to halt further advancements and the Armed Forces of DRC to cease all retaliatory measures.”

M23 Rebels Continue to Expand Control Despite Ceasefire Calls

Despite diplomatic efforts, the M23 rebel group, allegedly backed by Rwanda, has continued its offensive in Eastern DRC. The group has captured swathes of territory, leaving thousands dead and displacing massive populations.

In Goma, M23 has installed its own mayor, governor, and local officials, even holding a public rally attended by tens of thousands. The group’s leader, Colonel Nanga, defended their actions, stating:

“We have always called for dialogue and a political solution, but we have been refused. When we are attacked and our people are killed, we have the right to defend ourselves.”

However, the United Nations and Western allies accuse Rwanda of arming and funding M23, a claim that Kigali denies.

Protests Against Rwanda in the US and International Warnings

In Washington, Congolese protesters marched toward the Rwandan Embassy, demanding that the US impose sanctions on President Paul Kagame for his alleged support of M23. Protesters carried placards reading:

• “Congo is not for sale.”
• “Stop Rwanda’s aggression.”

Meanwhile, UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk has warned that the conflict is at risk of spreading regionally, stating that "the worst may yet come."

Humanitarian Crisis Worsens

As violence escalates, humanitarian workers are also being targeted. A Swiss NGO recently reported that three of its local staff were killed while on a mission in Eastern DRC. As a result, it has halted all operations in the region.

With M23 fighters seizing the city of Goma and advancing towards Bukavu, the DRC government and its allies face mounting pressure to counter the offensive.

What’s Next?

The crisis in Eastern DRC remains one of the most volatile conflicts in Africa today. With diplomatic efforts struggling to stop the violence, the coming weeks will determine whether the ceasefire talks in Tanzania can bring lasting peace—or if the region will plunge deeper into war.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing crisis.