Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has expressed deep concern over the rapidly deteriorating security situation in the Great Lakes region, urging all parties involved to show maximum restraint and return to dialogue.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Chairperson cited escalating tensions in South Kivu, in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and in Cibitoke Province of Burundi, where fresh clashes and violence against civilians have been reported.
Youssouf said the renewed hostilities undermine the Doha Framework Agreement between the DRC and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/Movements of 23 March (AFC/M23), as well as the Washington, D.C. Agreement between the DRC and Rwanda—both of which were intended to ease tensions and promote regional stability.
“These clashes and the violence perpetrated against civilian populations run counter to the momentum generated by these agreements,” the Chairperson said. “All stakeholders must exercise restraint and prioritise a political solution.”
Solidarity With Affected Civilians
Youssouf expressed solidarity with the affected communities in both the DRC and Burundi, reaffirming the AU’s longstanding position that lasting peace is rooted in full respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States in the region.
He reiterated the AU’s condemnation of any attempt to establish a parallel administration in eastern DRC—an apparent reference to recent reports of armed groups trying to exert administrative control in contested zones.
Regional Commitments Must Be Honoured
The Chairperson called on governments in the Great Lakes region to honour their obligations under the 2013 Addis Ababa Framework Agreement and to comply fully with the Pact on Non-Aggression and Mutual Defence of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR).
These frameworks commit signatories to halting support for armed groups, respecting borders, and resolving disputes through peaceful means.
AU Ready to Support Renewed Dialogue
Youssouf concluded by reaffirming the African Union’s readiness to work closely with regional blocs and international partners to reinvigorate a coordinated regional security dialogue aimed at ending recurring instability in the Great Lakes region.
“The African Union stands ready to work with all stakeholders to restore peace and stability,” the Chairperson said.
The AU Commission is expected to intensify consultations with leaders from the DRC, Burundi, Rwanda, and other ICGLR member states in the coming weeks.
