Johannesburg, South Africa – Angolan President João Lourenço, in his capacity as Chair of the African Union, has called for an immediate ceasefire in the escalating conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The appeal comes as part of Angola’s diplomatic efforts to mediate the crisis and restore stability in the region.
AfricaHeadline Reports Team
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In a statement released by the Angolan presidency, Lourenço urged all parties to halt hostilities starting at midnight local time on Sunday, aiming to create a conducive environment for upcoming peace talks. The ceasefire, according to the statement, must include an end to all hostile actions against civilians and a halt to any territorial advances in the conflict zone.
Peace negotiations are scheduled to take place in Luanda, Angola, on March 18, marking the first direct meeting between the DRC government and the M23 rebels in three years. While Kinshasa has yet to officially confirm its participation, the M23 has welcomed Angola’s mediation efforts, urging DRC President Félix Tshisekedi to publicly commit to direct negotiations.
The conflict has intensified in recent weeks, with M23 rebels seizing key towns in North and South Kivu provinces, leading to mass displacement and worsening the humanitarian crisis. Despite diplomatic efforts, violence persists, underscoring the urgency for dialogue and a sustainable resolution to the ongoing hostilities.
