UA mediator Faure Gnassingbé pushes for lasting peace in eastern DRC

In a high-level gathering held in Lomé yesterday, Faure Gnassingbé, President of the Togolese Council of Ministers and African Union (AU) Mediator for the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Great Lakes crisis, led a pivotal review of the mediation efforts executed over the past six months. The meeting brought together AU facilitators, representatives from international partners including the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross, as well as regional bodies such as the East African Community (EAC), Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR).

Addressing the assembly, Gnassingbé highlighted the structured progress achieved in aligning the African mediation architecture since January. “We have systematically strengthened the framework of our collective intervention,” he noted. “This gathering represents a critical milestone in enhancing our coordinated response and advancing sustainable solutions to the crisis.”

While acknowledging the strides made, the Mediator underscored the ongoing need to deepen cohesion and synchronization among the various mediation mechanisms active in the region. “Our mission demands unwavering commitment,” he stated, reaffirming his dedication to the task entrusted by the AU. “We will continue this journey with humility and perseverance, supported by the broad goodwill aimed at restoring stability in the DRC.”

Strengthening the path to peace

The deliberations concluded with concrete steps to refine the mediation strategy. Key decisions include revising the facilitators’ action plans for the second half of 2026 and finalizing an operational roadmap within two weeks to clearly define the implementation of agreed-upon measures. Participants pledged to execute these resolutions with “precision and unity,” signaling a renewed collective resolve to drive the peace process forward.

A call for continued solidarity

Gnassingbé’s closing remarks emphasized the importance of sustained international and regional collaboration. “Despite the complexities of the situation, we are witnessing a growing convergence of efforts toward lasting peace,” he said. “Our resolve must match the gravity of the challenge ahead.”