Statement on the Signing of the Declaration of Principles between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of Rwanda

The DRC Diaspora Desk welcomes with cautious optimism today’s signing of the Declaration of Principles between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Rwanda.

We commend the Trump administration for its commitment to supporting peace efforts in the region. A durable peace will not only benefit the DRC but will also foster stability and prosperity for the Great Lakes Region. A peaceful environment will create opportunities for American companies and investors to access Congolese resources in a secure, ethical, and legal manner. We are convinced that a mutually beneficial US-DRC minerals deal can only be realized through the establishment of a lasting peace.

The illegal smuggling of Congolese minerals that partially fund this conflict must be addressed. All actors and networks involved—state and non-state—must face targeted sanctions and legal consequences

Our optimism is tempered by the fact that the UN Security Council resolution 2773 passed on February 21, 2025, calling for the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all foreign forces, has yet to be implemented. A signed declaration alone will remain a symbolic gesture without accountability and concrete actions and timelines.

There can be no peace without justice and reparations for those who have lost their lives and livelihoods. Justice is owed to the more than 8,000 killed, over 6 million displaced, and more than 1 million forced to flee their country. 

Referencing Her Excellency, DRC’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner's affirmation that "accountability must not be postponed," we believe that a commitment to timely accountability is crucial. Congolese people await concrete actions and clear timelines for the withdrawal of foreign troops, including the estimated 4,000 Rwandan troops present in North and South Kivu, as reported by the United Nations. As Rwanda's Foreign Minister, His Excellency Olivier Nduhungirehe, co-signed today’s declaration, we are hopeful that this was done with sincerity and that his government will soon announce a date for the full and unconditional withdrawal of its troops from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

The DRC Diaspora Desk remains vigilant yet hopeful. True peace, justice, and stability are the foundations for long-term prosperity—not only for the Congolese people but also for regional trade, foreign investment, and the normalization of relations between the DRC and Rwanda. We stand ready to support efforts that uphold the dignity and rights of Congolese people and ensure that today’s declaration becomes a turning point rather than another broken promise. 

About:

The DRC Diaspora Desk is a coalition of Congolese organizations, leaders, advocates and allies committed to collective action to benefit the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. As a hub for coordinated advocacy, we work to ensure that Congolese voices are heard.