** Goma: A crisis that reveals the faults of a diplomatic system in East Africa **
The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to arouse concern internationally. While Goma, the capital of the province of North Kivu, gradually falls under the control of the rebels of the M23 and the Rwandan forces, the ramifications of a crisis that is both humanitarian and geopolitical are taking shape. The refusal of the Congolese president Félix Tshisekedi to participate in a virtual meeting proposed by Kenya accentuates the tensions already present in the region. This incident not only highlights the dynamics of power between Congo and Rwanda, but also reveals the faults of a diplomatic mediation system which would like to be effective but which struggles to provide lasting solutions.
### The historical roots of persistent tension
The history of conflicts between the DRC and Rwanda is marked by a fight for control of natural resources, a quest for national security for Kigali, and the fight against rebel groups, such as the Liberation Democratic Forces of Rwanda (FDLR ). Tensions today are not new: they arise from a complex history of exiles, post-genocide violence and an armed challenge that has been going on for several decades. While Rwanda considers FDLR as an existing threat to its border, Kinshasa considers them as allies, which further complicates dialogue between countries.
### Diplomacy to the test
The role of regional diplomacy, here embodied by Kenya and Angola, appears decisive but also insufficient. Attempts at mediation, far from eating tensions, are often perceived as shadow games where we do not attack the real substantive issues. Rwanda’s request for the DRC to engage in a dialogue with the M23, considered by Tshisekedi as a terrorist group, sums up the fundamental disagreement. This paradoxical expectation of direct negotiations with an armed group before which the DRC is inflexible underlines the ineffectiveness of traditional mediation methods.
In addition, this crisis illustrates poorly targeted and insufficient diplomatic pressure. Repeated calls from neighboring countries and international organizations for resolution of the crisis have not produced a tangible effect. The reluctance of the international community against Kigali is indicative of an inequality in the treatment of conflicts in Africa, where certain regimes benefit from a certain impunity.
### A new model of diplomacy?
Faced with a system that seems blocked, could we consider a paradigm shift in mediation efforts? Rather than trying to bring the protagonists around the table formally, an innovative approach could consist in using digital platforms to establish a dialogue with civil society, which often feels the impacts of political decisions on the ground. Regional actors, including young people and women, should also be integrated into the process, making it possible to highlight often neglected perspectives.
The use of informal negotiations, “citizen diplomacies” and collegial peace initiatives could promote a climate of trust by again initiating discussions on less antagonistic bases. These dialogues could also make it possible to review the framework of strategic alliances in the region, giving priority to human security and reconciliation, rather than pure geopolitical considerations.
### Statistics and recognition of local actors
In addition, it is crucial to integrate statistical data on the humanitarian consequences of this conflict. According to the United Nations, millions of people are moved and live in precarious camps around Goma. This highlights the need for a more immediate response adapted to the needs of affected populations. Economic repercussions should not be overlooked either: the sustainable presence of armed conflicts directly impacts the economic and social development of the region.
In parallel, recognition of local actors and civil society organizations, often forgotten, could offer unique prospects and field solutions. They know the issues that afflict their community and often have already sketched resolution tracks.
### Conclusion
The recent episode in Goma recalls that, to advance towards a lasting peace, it is imperative to renew the way in which diplomatic negotiations take place. The status quo, marked by mistrust and refusal, can only lead to an interminable cycle of conflicts. It is time to think of more inclusive diplomacy, listening to the marginalized voices and the real needs of the affected populations. The time is no longer for shadows, but in the light of collective initiatives which could, finally, shed light on peace and stability in East Africa.