Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has praised the signing of the Washington Accords for Peace, calling it a historic breakthrough that could finally bring stability to Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after decades of violence.
The agreement was signed in Washington, D.C., at the Donald J. Trump United States Institute of Peace, with U.S. President Donald Trump witnessing the event alongside Presidents Paul Kagame of Rwanda and Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC. Kenyatta was among the leaders invited to witness the ceremony, underscoring his long-standing role as a regional peace mediator.
What the Washington Accords Promise
The peace deal includes several major commitments:
A permanent ceasefire between Rwanda and the DRC
Disarmament of armed groups operating in eastern Congo
Safe and voluntary return of refugees
A new framework for economic cooperation and integration
Joint monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance
Kenyatta said the accords build on years of regional diplomacy, including the Nairobi and Luanda peace processes, both of which he helped lead during and after his presidency.
Kenyatta: The Deal Ends One of the World’s Deadliest Conflicts
In a statement, Kenyatta noted that the conflict in eastern Congo has lasted for more than 30 years and claimed over 10 million lives, making it one of the deadliest crises globally.
“This agreement marks a turning point. The ceasefire, the disarmament of rebel groups, the return of refugees, and the plan for shared economic growth all bring fresh hope to millions of people,” Kenyatta said.
He commended Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi for choosing dialogue over confrontation and for demonstrating political courage at a critical moment for the region.
U.S. Praised for Driving Peace Efforts
Kenyatta also acknowledged the role of President Trump and the U.S. government, saying their support helped make the peace deal possible by providing political backing and a platform for negotiations.
He added that the successful signing of the Washington Accords shows what regional leaders can achieve when fully supported by international partners.
A New Dawn for the Great Lakes
According to Kenyatta, the peace agreement gives Rwanda and the DRC an opportunity to reset their relationship, rebuild trust, and focus on improving the lives of their citizens.
He said the deal could open doors for cross-border trade, joint infrastructure projects, and long-term stability in the Great Lakes region.
“Millions of people now have genuine hope for lasting peace after decades of suffering. This agreement is a new dawn,” he noted.
The Washington Accords are expected to be followed by implementation meetings involving regional bodies, civil society groups, and international partners to ensure the commitments are met.
