Tanzania Summit Seeks Peace in Eastern DRC

At a joint summit in Tanzania, leaders from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and East African Community (EAC) discussed the escalating conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), emphasizing diplomacy as a sustainable solution. President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa and other leaders urged for direct talks with rebel groups, including the Rwanda-backed M23, which has captured major cities like Goma. Despite calls for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid, the summit failed to reach concrete resolutions, particularly not demanding Rwanda's withdrawal, which many see as crucial. The conflict has led to severe humanitarian crises, with thousands displaced and the DRC government under threat. The lack of urgency in summit decisions has drawn criticism, especially with the ongoing deployment of SADC peacekeepers, which Rwanda claims exacerbates the situation. Tensions remain high as the conflict is fueled by ethnic and political grievances, with regional leaders striving for a diplomatic resolution.