The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, has addressed members of the National Consultative Forum of Political Organisations (NFPO) during its General Assembly, highlighting key issues in Rwanda’s international relations, with a particular focus on developments in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Speaking to the assembly yesterday, Minister Nduhungirehe expressed deep concern over what he described as persistent violations by the DRC of existing peace agreements aimed at stabilizing the eastern part of the country. “The DRC has once again resorted to using mercenaries from Colombia,” the Minister stated, warning that such actions undermine regional peace efforts and exacerbate insecurity in the region.
He further pointed to a worrying rise in hate speech and targeted violence against the Banyamulenge and Tutsi communities in eastern DRC, noting that these acts continue to escalate despite ongoing diplomatic engagements and mediation efforts.
“The persistence of these actions threatens the fragile stability in the eastern DRC and the broader Great Lakes region,” Minister Nduhungirehe said, emphasizing the need for adherence to previously signed agreements and responsible state conduct in addressing internal conflicts.
The remarks come at a time when Rwanda has been actively engaged in regional diplomacy to promote stability, security, and cooperation in the Great Lakes region, amid ongoing concerns about armed groups and cross-border tensions.
