Kenyatta, Obasanjo to Lead Fresh Peace Talks in Congo Amid Rising Rebel Threat

Kenya’s former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Nigeria’s ex-leader Olusegun Obasanjo have been appointed to spearhead renewed peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government and M23 rebels, who have been rapidly advancing in the country’s volatile east.

The two African statesmen, known for their diplomatic efforts on the continent, will work jointly to broker a ceasefire and bring the warring sides back to the negotiating table in a bid to end the escalating violence that has displaced thousands and heightened regional tensions.

Mr Kenyatta, who previously led peace efforts in the DRC under the East African Community (EAC) framework, played a key role in facilitating earlier dialogue that saw government officials and rebel groups engage in direct talks, though the peace remains fragile.

His return to the process highlights Nairobi’s influence in regional diplomacy.

Obasanjo, a veteran peace mediator, has been instrumental in past conflict resolution efforts across Africa, including Ethiopia’s Tigray peace deal.

His inclusion in the talks reflects an attempt to bolster credibility and widen regional engagement.

“The appointment of Kenyatta and Obasanjo brings renewed hope for a sustainable solution to the conflict,” a senior EAC official told this publication .

“Their combined experience could bridge the divide that has kept peace out of reach.”

M23 rebels, who claim to fight for the rights of ethnic Tutsis in Congo, have been steadily gaining territory in North Kivu province, posing a significant challenge to the Congolese army and undermining international peacekeeping efforts.

The United Nations has warned of worsening humanitarian conditions as fighting escalates, with over 500,000 people displaced since the rebels resumed their offensive last year.

Previous peace deals have repeatedly broken down, but observers say the high-profile involvement of Kenyatta and Obasanjo could add much-needed momentum to the stalled process.

ligadwah@businessdayafrica.org