MWE Correspondent
Former Democratic Republic of the Congo President Joseph Kabila has recently traveled to Goma, a city in the volatile eastern province of North Kivu, currently controlled by the armed group M23.
This visit comes after Kabila was stripped of his parliamentary immunity, a decision that has exposed him to possible legal proceedings.
Goma, a key urban center near the Virunga National Park, has been at the heart of persistent conflict fueled by ethnic tensions, resource disputes, and rebel activity. The M23 rebellion has displaced thousands of civilians in recent years, exacerbating humanitarian challenges in the region.
During his stay, Kabila engaged with prominent local religious leaders known for their mediation efforts, urging him to help foster peace and reconciliation in a region long plagued by instability. These leaders have played a vital role in previous ceasefire agreements and community rebuilding initiatives.
The current administration, led by President Félix Tshisekedi, has voiced concern over Kabila’s involvement in eastern Congo, accusing him of clandestine support for the M23 rebels—an allegation the former president denies. This accusation has deepened political divisions within the country.
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Experts note that Kabila’s visit could influence the ongoing peace negotiations brokered by regional bodies like the African Union (AU) and the East African Community (EAC), both actively involved in seeking a durable resolution to the conflict. These organizations have repeatedly called for all parties to exercise restraint and pursue dialogue.
The eastern DRC’s rich mineral deposits, including coltan and tin, have long been a source of conflict financing, complicating peace efforts. Stability in Goma and North Kivu is therefore critical not only for local communities but also for regional economic development.
As the situation evolves, international observers, including the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), are monitoring developments closely. The coming weeks will be decisive in shaping the future of peace and governance in this troubled region.
