Kenyan President William Ruto, who leads the East African Community (EAC), announced late Sunday that the organisation would hold an extraordinary summit within 48 hours to address the escalating conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Ruto confirmed earlier discussions with DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who agreed to participate in the summit.
In a statement released by the presidency in Kenya, Ruto expressed alarm over the worsening conditions in the region, which are characterised by ongoing violence and an escalating humanitarian crisis.
He noted that the conflict in Congo has seen increased military actions and the closing of the airspace over the city of Goma, further deteriorating the situation for those affected.
The Kenyan leader stated that East Africa is responsible for reducing violence, asserting, “Kenya strongly believes that a sustainable solution can only be reached through engagement, constructive dialogue, and a renewed dedication to peace.”
“Consequently, and having consulted with the heads of state of the region on this dire situation, we will be convening an extraordinary EAC Summit within the next 48 hours to deliberate on this crisis and chart a way forward,” he added.
Ruto also urged enhanced participation from the African Union, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and international partners.
Congo cut diplomatic relations with Rwanda on Sunday following escalations that have resulted in the deaths of at least 13 peacekeepers and foreign soldiers and left thousands of civilians displaced.
The M23 rebel group, which Rwanda reportedly supports, has intensified its assault in eastern Congo, taking control of key towns and advancing towards Goma.
The spokesperson for the UN refugee agency (UNHCR), Matthew Saltmarsh, said during a UN briefing in Geneva on Friday that the number of people displaced due to the fighting has surged to over 400,000 in just 2025 alone.
