The recent peace accord between DR Congo and Rwanda has drawn mixed reactions, prompting skepticism from residents in Goma regarding its effectiveness without the involvement of key players.
**Scepticism Surrounds DR Congo-Rwanda Peace Agreement in Goma**
**Scepticism Surrounds DR Congo-Rwanda Peace Agreement in Goma**
Citizens of the rebel-held city express doubts over new peace deal amid historical conflict.
In a context marked by ongoing conflict, a newly signed peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda has sparked varied responses, especially in the rebel-controlled city of Goma. Former Congolese president Joseph Kabila has characterized the deal as a mere "trade agreement," underscoring his concerns about the lack of comprehensive measures involved. The agreement, established in Washington, outlines conditions for "disengagement, disarmament, and conditional integration" of various armed groups in the eastern DRC but lacks specific implementation strategies.
The long-standing conflict resurfaced earlier this year when the M23 rebel group, accused of receiving Rwandan support—a claim both Rwanda and the group vehemently deny—captured significant territories, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. With reports of thousands dead and countless civilians displaced, the DRC government sought U.S. assistance, proposing access to vital resources in exchange for security assurances, raising concerns about potential exploitation of the mineral-rich region.
Kabila's concerns about the agreement's participants were echoed in Goma, where local residents questioned the absence of M23 in peace discussions. A commercial motorbike rider expressed a desire for tangible peace rather than diplomatic dialogues that have failed in the past. Human rights advocates shared similar sentiments, arguing the agreement overlooks essential justice measures, which could perpetuate violence through proxy groups.
Despite these criticisms, some organizations see the deal as a crucial step towards stability. Stephanie Marungu from a humanitarian organization in Goma viewed the agreement positively, expressing hope it could facilitate aid access and improve conditions in the area. However, the challenges of actual implementation remain a looming concern, as residents express wariness about the motives behind the deal and its potential focus on enriching elites rather than addressing the needs of the suffering populace.
As the situation continues to evolve, many Goma inhabitants remain anxious about the implications of this peace deal in the region marked by historical distrust and ongoing violence.
The long-standing conflict resurfaced earlier this year when the M23 rebel group, accused of receiving Rwandan support—a claim both Rwanda and the group vehemently deny—captured significant territories, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. With reports of thousands dead and countless civilians displaced, the DRC government sought U.S. assistance, proposing access to vital resources in exchange for security assurances, raising concerns about potential exploitation of the mineral-rich region.
Kabila's concerns about the agreement's participants were echoed in Goma, where local residents questioned the absence of M23 in peace discussions. A commercial motorbike rider expressed a desire for tangible peace rather than diplomatic dialogues that have failed in the past. Human rights advocates shared similar sentiments, arguing the agreement overlooks essential justice measures, which could perpetuate violence through proxy groups.
Despite these criticisms, some organizations see the deal as a crucial step towards stability. Stephanie Marungu from a humanitarian organization in Goma viewed the agreement positively, expressing hope it could facilitate aid access and improve conditions in the area. However, the challenges of actual implementation remain a looming concern, as residents express wariness about the motives behind the deal and its potential focus on enriching elites rather than addressing the needs of the suffering populace.
As the situation continues to evolve, many Goma inhabitants remain anxious about the implications of this peace deal in the region marked by historical distrust and ongoing violence.
