Press Release: EAC Defense Ministers Meeting to Discuss Peacekeeping Operations in the DRC
Nairobi – East African Community (EAC) Defense Ministers have held an extraordinary meeting in Nairobi to discuss ongoing peacekeeping operations in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The meeting, held on Thursday, brought together the Ministers of Defense of Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda and the DRC, represented by Deputy Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba.
According to the Chairman of EAC Defense Ministers, Ir Alain Tribert, the meeting was aimed at guiding peace-making operations in the troubled east of the DRC. Ministers acknowledged the progress made by the EAC Regional Force in supporting the DRC Armed Forces in maintaining public order, opening up supply routes and facilitating access to humanitarian aid. However, they also highlighted the continuing insecurity in some areas and its impact on the humanitarian situation.
In unanimity, the ministers stressed the importance of maintaining stability in eastern DRC, which is a key partner for the socio-economic development of the region. They supported the continued operations of the EAC Regional Force to support the DRC in its efforts to pacify and restore peace.
This extraordinary meeting demonstrates the commitment of the East African Community to work together to resolve the security challenges in the region. Collaboration between EAC member countries is essential to ensure peace and stability in the DRC and in the region as a whole.
The continuation of these pacification and peace restoration operations will depend on the recommendations made during this meeting and on the continued cooperation between the member countries of the EAC and the DRC