Military leaders from East African Community (EAC) member states convened in Nairobi on Friday to address the worsening conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The high-level discussions followed a directive from the recent EAC-Southern African Development Community (SADC) Heads of State Summit held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Ahead of the meeting, the EAC Defence Experts Working Group outlined key priorities to tackle the security and humanitarian crisis. The military chiefs agreed on several urgent measures, including an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, opening humanitarian corridors for aid delivery, and restoring key infrastructure, such as the reopening of Goma Airport.
Additionally, discussions focused on securing major supply routes to facilitate relief efforts and formulating a long-term stabilization plan for Goma and its surrounding areas.
Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, reflected on the deep-rooted nature of the conflict, linking it to the colonial-era border demarcations that continue to fuel tensions. He stressed that lasting peace could only be achieved through sincere negotiations among the involved parties.
Kenya’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Charles Kahariri, who chaired the meeting, highlighted the urgency of addressing both the security threats and the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the region.
The military leaders concluded their discussions by drafting a report containing actionable recommendations. This report will be presented to the EAC Council of Ministers for further deliberation and implementation.
With regional and international pressure mounting, the recommendations are expected to guide collective efforts to restore stability in eastern DRC and provide much-needed relief to affected populations. The EAC Council of Ministers will review the proposals and outline the next phase of intervention in the conflict-stricken region.
