** Towards a peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda: a step towards reconciliation? **
Recent developments around discussions for a peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda raise measured but significant hopes. Massad Boulos, senior advisor for Africa in the American State Department, spoke on May 15, 2025 constructive exchanges between the presidents Félix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame, paving the way to the signing of a peace agreement, following a declaration of principles signed in Washington. This diplomatic framework, supported by regional and international actors, could mark a major advance in a complex context, but it deserves to be analyzed from different angles.
### A process rich in historical issues
The history of relations between the DRC and Rwanda is marked by armed conflicts and persistent tensions, especially in the eastern region of Congo, where several armed groups, such as AFC/m23, remain active. The causes of these tensions are multiple: political rivalries, ethnicity, rivalries for natural resources, as well as the consequences of the Rwandan genocide in 1994, which led to a massive influx of Rwandan refugees in the DRC.
However, the recent initiative, which is part of enlarged diplomatic efforts including the processes of Nairobi, Luanda and Doha, offers a new opportunity for dialogue. The presence of facilitations by the Eastern African Community (CEA) and SADC, with the support of the African Union, shows how much these efforts are supported by a regional dynamic.
### expectations around the agreement
The project being developed includes commitments on several crucial points: sovereignty, security, regional economic cooperation and the return of displaced people. These elements are not only fundamental to stabilize the region, but also essential to restore confidence between the two nations.
It is important to emphasize that progress in these areas may also have positive repercussions on the UN mission in the DRC (Monusco) and on the need for increased humanitarian support for millions of people affected by the conflict. The implementation of these commitments will require a strong political will on both sides, as well as rigorous monitoring to guarantee their effectiveness.
### The challenges of implementation
Despite this positive momentum, the road to a sustainable peace agreement includes considerable challenges. The parties must navigate through deeply rooted historical grievances and mutual distrust. In addition, the power of armed groups in eastern Congo represents a real threat to security. The risk of divergence on the content of the text, which would lead to a ministerial meeting in Washington, underlines this fragility.
Current discussions also reveal a question posed by several observers: what will be the real will of Congolese and Rwandan governments to prioritize peace on internal political aspirations? The political context in the DRC and Rwanda can influence negotiations. Popular support for peace initiatives, or the lack of this one, could also play a preponderant role.
### A glow of hope
The announcement of Massad Boulos on progress made can be seen as a glimmer of hope, especially since the United States played an active role in the mediation process. Diplomatic commitment, although necessary, cannot resolve the structural crises of the two countries alone. Civil society, non -governmental organizations and local actors must also be integrated into this process to encourage lasting peace, based on principles of reconciliation and community dialogue.
### Conclusion: Towards a lasting peace?
The peace agreement in preparation between the DRC and Rwanda represents a significant opportunity to appease regional tensions. However, its success will depend on the ability of the two countries to overcome historical challenges and to initiate a sincere dialogue. As Massad Boulos pointed out, the resolution of these long and complex disputes requires unfailing determination. The commitment of regional and international actors, in support of local initiatives, could open ways to sustainable reconciliation, conducive to stability and development in this region of Central Africa.
The weeks and months to come will be crucial to observe how these discussions will result in fact and if a real consensus can emerge from the current dialogues. In this context, it is essential to keep in mind that peace is a continuous process and that it requires collective effort. The path to reconciliation is emerging, but it remains dotted with obstacles to overcome.