**An urgent return: Félix Tshisekedi faces the security storm in eastern DRC**
On January 23, 2025, the security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) took a worrying turn, prompting President Félix Tshisekedi to cut short his stay at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Having just defended the ambitious “KIVU-KINSHASA GREEN CORRIDOR” project, an initiative aimed at warding off the scourges of climate change while promoting sustainable development, the Head of State is forced to quickly redirect his attention to the pressing issues facing his country.
At first glance, this premature return might seem to be a direct response to the deteriorating security situation in the eastern provinces, where violent clashes are raging between government forces and armed groups, including the M23, supported by foreign actors, notably Rwanda. However, this situation raises much deeper questions about power dynamics in the DRC, the people’s expectations of leadership, and, most importantly, possible paths to sustainable conflict resolution.
### A distorted dynamic: the root causes of conflict
The recent clashes in Saké, the last stronghold before reaching the major city of Goma, highlight the persistent fragility of security in the east of the country. But beyond the fighting, it is essential to explore the underlying drivers that fuel this cycle of violence. Ethnic rivalries, the exploitation of natural resources, and the absence of strong institutions are all factors that exacerbate an already volatile situation.
Considering the historical context of conflicts in the region, where the exploitation of precious minerals attracts many armed groups, the question arises: how can the Tshisekedi government establish a climate of sustainable peace? Indeed, economic gains are often taken in disregard of the rights of local populations, leading to frustration and revolt.
### The urgency of strategic leadership
The World Economic Forum, during which Félix Tshisekedi highlighted the “KIVU-KINSHASA GREEN CORRIDOR”, represents a platform where world leaders discuss crucial issues for the planet. While it is commendable to promote sustainable development, is it possible to really move forward on this path when the very security of the DRC is threatened? This raises the question of a delicate balance to be found between development and security.
Leaders of other countries that have gone through similar crises, such as Rwanda with its post-genocide development or Mozambique after years of civil war, had understood that true peace is accompanied by a profound social and economic transformation. The DRC, with its wealth and diversity, has the means to project itself towards a bright future, but this cannot be done without clear leadership and strong political will.
### Keys to the future: an integrated approach
Beyond immediate military responses, peace strategies must integrate socio-economic elements. This could involve:
1. **Inter-community dialogue**: Fostering an inclusive dialogue between all factions in order to reduce ethnic tensions and build trust.
2. **International engagement**: A coalition of states and international organizations could play a crucial role in monitoring external support for armed groups and proposing pragmatic solutions.
3. **Local sustainable development**: By orchestrating economic development through initiatives such as the GREEN CORRIDOR, the government could transform investments into opportunities for local communities, thus reducing the attractiveness of armed groups.
4. **Strengthening institutions**: Ensuring the rule of law and respect for human rights as the foundation of development will restore trust and bring long-term stability.
### Conclusion
As Félix Tshisekedi returns to Kinshasa, the alarming context in the east of the country requires a response that goes well beyond immediate political decisions. This moment could be an opportunity to redefine the national narrative, combining security, sustainable development and social inclusion. The DRC has immense potential, but to unleash it, a global, bold and above all humane strategy is needed. In an interconnected world, lasting peace in the DRC would not only be a triumph for the Congolese people, but also a strong message of resilience in the face of contemporary challenges.
Thus, in the face of the rubble of instability, a renaissance could be within reach, but it will require collective ambition and an enlightened vision to turn the page on a long history of conflict.