### The role of Togo in mediation of the conflict in the DRC: a new approach to the old challenges
The conflict in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is one of the most persistent and complex in Africa. While the situation continues to evolve, the African Union recently appointed Faure Gnassingbé, the president of Togo, as a mediator in this crisis. This choice arouses questions about the effectiveness of a mediation that emanates from a country geographically and culturally distant from the theater of operations.
#### Conflict context
The M23, an armed group which emerged in the 2010s, continues to influence the eastern regions of the DRC. Despite decades of conflicts, the current situation shows that the group may have lost part of its control over the region, making the need for more pressing mediation. The analysis of Pierre Boisselet of the Ebuteli Institute underlines the importance of understanding that, even if the M23 has shown signs of weakness, this should not lead to an underestimation of the challenges that remain. Dialogue is more necessary than ever for lasting peace.
#### Why Faure Gnassingbé?
The choice of mediation by Faure Gnassingbé may seem surprising. The geographic distance and certain cultural differences could arouse doubts about its understanding of local dynamics. However, several factors can play in favor of this appointment. On the one hand, the Togolese president has repeatedly expressed his commitment to peace and stability in Africa. On the other hand, the use of a mediator outside the region could offer a new perspective, without local prejudices.
#### a previous one with Angola
Angola, under the direction of Joao Lourenço, had also tried to play a key role in mediation of tensions in the DRC, but the results of these efforts were not always conclusive. The question then arises: will Faure Gnassingbé be more likely? If it is true that each mediator brings his own style and methods, it is crucial to wonder what approach can really promote dialogue among the different actors involved in the conflict.
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It is essential to recognize the obstacles that could hinder the effectiveness of a new mediator. The fragmentation of armed groups and the multiplicity of interest in play creates a landscape particularly difficult to navigate. Previous interventions, often marked by temporary solutions, have shown that an inclusive dialogue is essential to establish lasting peace.
Effective mediation must therefore not only encourage negotiations, but also enter into a dynamic of strengthening confidence between the different actors. Stakeholders must feel safe enough to engage in a dialogue process. This often implies support for disarmament or reintegration initiatives for combatants, but also a clear commitment to justice and reconciliation.
#### Prospects for the future
The appointment of Faure Gnassingbé as a mediator represents an opportunity to explore new ways to peace. By relying on an inclusive method, while respecting local specificities, it could make it possible to establish a framework for constructive dialogue. It would also be relevant to also involve actors in civil society and local communities in the process, because their contribution can be crucial for the sustainability of any solution.
The future of mediation in the DRC will depend not only on the ability of Faure Gnassingbé to create an environment conducive to exchanges, but also on the commitment of the different parties to sincerely seek peace. The path remains sown with pitfalls, but each step towards dialogue is a step towards a potential resolution of the current tensions.
### Conclusion
The dynamics of the conflict in the DRC is complex and deeply rooted, and the simple responses are not enough. The arrival of a new mediator, like Faure Gnassingbé, offers an opportunity to reassess peace strategies. The success of this initiative will depend on the will of the actors concerned to engage in a process of sincere dialogue, as well as the capacity of the mediator to skillfully navigate in this tumultuous context. It is with a climate of mutual respect and listening that real solutions will be able to emerge.