### Name a mediator for the DRC and Rwanda: what prospects?
The conflict between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, exacerbated by tensions linked to the rebellion of the M23, represents a complex question to the deep implications in the region of the great African lakes. With the official designation of Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, Togolese president, as a mediator by the African Union (AU), a new stage in the effort to resolution this conflict appear. This article will strive to explore the issues, implications and challenges of this appointment.
#### Conflict context
The conflict between the DRC and Rwanda has historical roots, marked by power struggles, security concerns and regional considerations. Rwanda’s support for rebel groups, such as M23, has fueled tensions that affect stability in eastern DRC. The humanitarian consequences of this instability are devastating, causing massive displacements of population and significant civil losses.
In this context, mediation is perceived as a crucial instrument to restore dialogue and seek lasting solutions.
### The role of the African Union
The African Union, as a regional actor, has the responsibility of facilitating conflict resolution on the continent. The decision to appoint Faure Gnassingbé was adopted without objection during a procedure of silence, which indicates a collective desire to endorse this choice. The latter is responsible for taking up the efforts made by his predecessor, João Lourenço, Angolan president, and to work in coordination with other international facilitators, such as Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya and Catherine Samba-Panza of the Central African Republic.
The ambition of a unified roadmap for the mediation process is a positive approach, because it could make it possible to centralize efforts and provide necessary clarity in an often confused environment.
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However, Faure Gnassingbé’s mandate will not be free from challenges. On the one hand, the question of the mediator’s legitimacy and influence is crucial. The perception that stakeholders have of him will undoubtedly affect his effectiveness. Faure Gnassingbé has an undeniable diplomatic background, but its previous links with certain actors in the conflict could qualify the perception of its neutrality.
On the other hand, the geopolitical context is particularly volatile. The complexity of alliances, local economic issues and regional geostrategic interests can indeed hinder the implementation of mediation proposals. The recent failures of previous dialogues highlight the importance of an adaptable approach and sensitive to the current dynamics.
#### The important reciprocity of efforts
One of the keys to success will reside in Faure Gnassingbé’s ability to establish a reciprocal dialogue not only between the DRC and Rwanda, but also within the various factions present in these countries. The participation of all the actors concerned is essential to ensure that the decisions taken are accepted and implemented.
This also raises the question of coordination between the various diplomatic initiatives. The need for consultation between the AU, the Development Community of Southern Africa (SADC) and the Eastern African Community (EAC) is indisputable. Common efforts could open innovative peace routes.
#### Conclusion: towards a sustainable resolution
The appointment of Faure Gnassingbé as a mediator in the conflict between the DRC and Rwanda represents an opportunity to potentially transform the dynamics of this prolonged crisis. Given the severity of the challenges at stake, a concerted effort will be necessary to create a sustainable peace framework.
The international community, as well as local actors, must support this process with suitable support, testify to a shared will for peace, and undertake to respect the commitments made during previous dialogues.
This moment requires both vision, understanding of the underlying issues and, above all, a collective determination to go beyond individual interests to generate authentic and restorative peace in the region. This is a complex challenge, but support for dialogue remains the most promising tool to build lasting resilience in the face of the impact of conflicts.