Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have committed to launch a Regional Economic Integration Framework, building on existing structures such as AfCFTA, COMESA, and the EAC, within three months.
- •The framework aims to enhance transparency in mineral supply chains, encourage joint resource management, and create mutually beneficial economic partnerships, with the U.S. government and private investors expected to play a supporting role.
- •To further stabilize the region, the Parties have agreed to support the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration of non-state armed groups, including the M23.
- •To ensure compliance, the agreement includes the formation of a Joint Oversight Committee (JOC), including representatives from both countries, to be established within 45 days.
“Under the framework, the Parties shall launch and/or expand cooperation on shared priorities such as national park management; hydropower development; derisking of mineral supply chains; joint management of resources in Lake Kivu; and transparent, formalized end-to-end mineral value chains (from mine to processed metal) that link both countries, in partnership, as appropriate, with the U.S. government and U.S. investors,” according to a statement from the US Department of State.
The accord represents a major step toward ending decades of conflict and unlocking the immense economic potential of the region. The international community, including the United Nations and key regional organizations, has welcomed the agreement as a turning point for Central Africa.
“This is a chance to turn the page – ensuring the protection of civilians, including refugees and internally displaced people, and advancing durable solutions that allow them to rebuild their lives in safety and dignity,” UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said.
The JOC’s members will invite the African Union, Qatar, and the United States, as observers and facilitators, with the first meeting scheduled to occur within 45 days, potentially in Washington, D.C.
According to a statement from the White House, the agreement will remain in effect indefinitely, unless terminated by either Party with six months’ notice. It may be amended by mutual consent and includes a legally binding annex outlining operational details.
In late 2021, the M23 rebel group reignited its insurgency in eastern DRC, seizing large areas, including the strategic city of Goma. The DRC government accuses Rwanda of backing the mostly Tutsi-led group, though Rwanda denies direct involvement and instead accuses DRC of supporting Hutu militias.