RWANDA, DRC SIGN PEACE DEAL TO END CONFLICT, BOOST INVESTMENT

Rwanda and DRC ink historic peace accord, paving the way for regional stability and billions in mineral investments.

Rwanda-drc peace Mineral investment Africa economic
Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) sign peace deal
Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) sign peace deal


Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) signed a landmark U.S.-brokered peace agreement on June 20, igniting hopes for an end to decades of conflict in eastern Congo and unlocking billions in Western investment for the mineral-rich region. The deal, formalized in Washington by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, marks a significant breakthrough in efforts to stabilize a region abundant in tantalum, gold, cobalt, copper, and lithium.

The agreement, signed by Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe and DRC Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, commits both nations to implement a 2024 accord for the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from eastern Congo within 90 days. It also establishes a regional economic integration framework within the same timeframe, fostering trade and investment in critical mineral supply chains. A joint security coordination mechanism will be formed within 30 days to monitor progress, complementing ongoing Qatar-hosted talks with the DRC and M23 rebels.

Rwandan Foreign Minister Nduhungirehe hailed the accord as a “turning point” for regional stability, while DRC’s Wagner emphasized its role in fostering disengagement and cooperation. U.S. President Donald Trump, who hosted the signing, described it as a historic achievement, noting its potential to attract U.S. investors to Congo’s mineral wealth. “This deal opens doors for prosperity and peace,” Trump said, presenting letters inviting Presidents Paul Kagame and Felix Tshisekedi to finalize the “Washington Accord” in Washington soon.

Massad Boulos, Trump’s senior adviser for Africa, told newsmen the agreement aligns peace efforts with economic opportunities, de-risking mineral supply chains and creating value chains linking both nations with U.S. partners. Rubio underscored the strategic vision, stating, “This accord strengthens regional stability and positions Congo and Rwanda as global players in critical minerals.”

The agreement supports broader economic goals, with both nations committed to launching a framework within three months to boost foreign trade and investment. Analysts see the deal as a catalyst for transforming the region’s economy, leveraging its vast resources to drive growth while fostering peace. With U.S. backing, the accord promises a new era of collaboration, positioning Rwanda and DRC to lead Africa’s economic and security resurgence.

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