The Togolese Council of Ministers President and African Union mediator for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)-Rwanda conflict, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, met with DRC Regional Integration Minister Floribert Anzuluni in Pya, Kozah Prefecture, on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation between Lomé and Kinshasa and addressing the ongoing security crisis in eastern DRC.
The discussions took place against the backdrop of intensified hostilities in North Kivu and South Kivu, where the M23 rebellion—allegedly supported by Rwanda according to Kinshasa and international observers—continues to expand its territorial control. The African Union mediator reiterated his commitment to facilitating sustainable peace through coordinated diplomatic efforts.
Key takeaways from the Lomé meeting
- Bilateral cooperation: The ministers explored ways to enhance collaboration between Togo and the DRC, particularly in security and regional stability.
- Conflict resolution: Mr. Anzuluni expressed gratitude for President Gnassingbé’s mediation role, emphasizing the need for continued African-led initiatives to resolve the crisis.
- Diplomatic momentum: The talks followed recent high-level consultations in Uganda and Angola, where regional leaders discussed peacebuilding and counter-insurgency strategies.
Regional diplomatic efforts
The Lomé meeting is part of a broader diplomatic push to stabilize the Great Lakes region, where conflicts have persisted for decades. Recent initiatives include:
- A semiannual peace process review held in Lomé on June 7–8, 2026, chaired by President Gnassingbé, which called for greater coherence among mediation actors.
- High-level talks in Washington and Doha, though progress remains limited amid ongoing violence.
- Consultations between DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and regional leaders, including Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye, to foster inclusive dialogue.
The African Union mediator stressed that only a united regional and international response can consolidate peace efforts and prevent further destabilization in eastern DRC.
