**Conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Between geopolitical tensions and regional security**
The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has become a major issue, not only for the country itself, but also for the entire African continent. Recent events in Goma, a key city in eastern DRC, highlight the growing tensions between regional actors and raise fundamental questions about national sovereignty, foreign intervention and civilian rights.
The tragic deaths of three South African soldiers during clashes with M23 rebels have shifted the discussion of this conflict from a simple humanitarian debate to a firm political outrage. Ronald Lamola, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations, expressed this outrage, denouncing Rwanda’s alleged support for the rebels, an assertion already supported by numerous United Nations reports. This highlights a worrying figure: since the beginning of this conflict, 13 South African soldiers have lost their lives, a sad toll that highlights the serious consequences of persistent instability in the region.
### The urgency of a collective response
A parameter that is little discussed in the context of this conflict is the need for a collective response at the African level. Although tensions between the DRC and Rwanda have historical roots, the current escalation of hostilities requires that neighboring countries, particularly those of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), take proactive measures. In a period where geopolitics is particularly influenced by changing alliances, the unity of African states could prove to be the best bulwark against the drift of armed conflicts.
As such, South Africa’s diplomatic efforts, through mediation between President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Rwandan counterpart, Paul Kagame, amplify the urgent need for a ceasefire. Discussions to relaunch peace talks, such as the Luanda process, in 2024, are imperative for a lasting solution to be considered. These initiatives require not only the commitment of the governments concerned, but also an active role of regional organizations.
### The humanitarian and economic dimensions of the conflict
At the heart of this war are humanitarian and economic issues of enormous magnitude. With millions of people displaced and social structures in disarray, the international community must realize that simply sending troops will not be enough. A 2022 Oxfam report found that the economic cost of the conflict has left millions of Congolese in dire need, while mineral resources, including coltan and gold, continue to attract external interests..
So what is happening in the region is more than an armed struggle. It is a struggle for control of resources, fueled by state and non-state actors who profit from it, often to the detriment of the local population. Daniel P. Aldrich, in his study of conflicts in Africa, has discussed the importance of rethinking humanitarian intervention by considering economic infrastructures to prevent people from becoming prisoners of a cycle of violence.
### The role of social media and disinformation
Another dimension, often underestimated, is the impact that social media has on the perception of the conflict and the spread of disinformation. Viral images of supposedly captured soldiers circulating on platforms not only create confusion on the ground, but also divide public opinion. Disinformation can aggravate tensions, make peace dialogues more difficult, and exacerbate ethnic hatred.
In the face of this, advocacy for responsible use of social media, as well as a transparent information campaign, could offer a path to a peaceful resolution. The role of young people in this regard is fundamental: they represent both an opportunity and a challenge for peace, and educational programs on the effects of war and conflict can provide them with the tools to navigate this complexity.
### Conclusion: For a sustainable peace in the DRC
It is time for regional and international actors to commit to building a sustainable peace in the DRC, taking into account not only military dynamics, but also socio-economic realities. Reconciliation will only be possible if the sovereignty of the DRC is respected, external actors stop interfering in its affairs and the basic needs of the Congolese are at the center of all discussions.
The future of eastern DRC is not a simple military issue, but a challenge of governance, society and economy that calls for a sincere and renewed commitment to achieve true and lasting peace. The current situation must be a call to action for the entire international community, let us contribute so that this human tragedy can find its just resolution.