THE National Civil Society Forum of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in collaboration with regional civil society forum leaders, has called for an immediate end to the conflict in the DRC, citing its destabilizing impact on the entire Great Lakes region.

Kennedy Walusalo, the representative of the Great Lakes Civil Society Forum, made the remarks yesterday in Dar es Salaam during a press briefing, expressing support for the resolutions from the recent East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) joint summit.

The EAC and SADC heads of state met over the weekend and announced 13 measures aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.

Walusalo noted that civil society organizations, which convened in Dar es Salaam from February 7 to 9, had endorsed the summit’s decisions.

“Insecurity in the DRC poses a serious threat to regional stability if not urgently addressed. The situation risks further deterioration, potentially destabilizing the entire region,” he warned.

He emphasized the need for collective efforts to achieve a lasting and inclusive solution.

Among the key resolutions are the immediate cessation of hostilities and the withdrawal of foreign forces from DRC territory.

Walusalo reaffirmed civil society’s commitment to supporting peace efforts and ensuring justice for victims of violence.

“The participants endorsed integrating the Luanda and Nairobi processes to facilitate dialogue between the DRC and Rwanda, while stressing the urgency of an immediate and effective ceasefire,” he said.

He also underscored the importance of a coordinated regional approach to address the security, humanitarian, and political challenges facing the DRC and the broader Great Lakes region.

“We commend the heads of state for convening this timely special meeting on the security situation in the DRC,” Walusalo concluded.