U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing to host Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame at the White House in the coming days. The meeting is aimed at advancing the peace deal signed between the two countries, which was brokered by the U.S.
This high-level discussion comes at a tense time, as fighting has resumed in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where the M23 rebel group—allegedly backed by Rwanda—has captured key cities like Goma and Bukavu in the Kivu region.
Although the DRC and Rwanda signed a ceasefire in Washington on June 27, its terms are yet to be implemented. Trump has described the deal as a major breakthrough in the long-standing conflict, but critics say it lacks clarity—especially around the economic aspects, considering U.S. interest in the region’s valuable minerals.
Kenya Urges Continued Peace Support
Meanwhile, Kenya is urging the U.S. and Qatar to increase their support for the Luanda-Nairobi Process, a regional initiative that aims to address the root causes of the conflict.
In a statement on Wednesday, Kenyan Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi said the support of the U.S. and Qatar was “critical” to achieving lasting peace in the Great Lakes region.
“The unified process is a cornerstone for building a sustainable solution to the conflict,” Mudavadi said. He called on all parties to respect the ceasefire and political promises already made.
The Luanda-Nairobi Process has two tracks: the Luanda track, which focuses on political talks and ceasefire agreements, and the Nairobi track, led by the East African Community, which combines political negotiations with military action by regional forces.
Diplomatic sources told AFP that Qatar is preparing to host new peace talks between the DRC government and the M23 rebels. These talks aim to strengthen the U.S.-led peace deal. Qatar also helped mediate the June agreement and has remained active in the peace process.
In March 2025, Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani hosted both Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi in Doha as part of efforts to calm tensions.
Mudavadi also praised the African Union for backing the peace process. He said the regional talks are a key step towards disarming rebel groups, setting up joint security teams, and helping displaced people return home safely.
He added that ending the conflict in eastern DRC is crucial for long-term stability and economic growth across Central and East Africa.
