EACRF Troops in DRC Granted Additional Six Months
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Loading... - Maria Wanja
- 01 Jun 2023
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The East African regional force (EACRF) stationed in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been granted an extension of their tenure, allowing them to remain in the country for another six months. The decision was reached during the 21st extraordinary summit of the East African Community (EAC) heads of state in Bujumbura, Burundi, held on Thursday.
The troops, comprising soldiers from Kenya, Burundi, Uganda, and South Sudan, will now continue their mission until September 3. President William Ruto and his Burundian counterpart, Evariste Ndayishimiye, were the only two heads of state in attendance at this significant conference, while the leaders of the DRC, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and South Sudan were represented by their respective military representatives.
The EACRF troops were initially deployed to assist in securing areas previously occupied by the M23 rebels, whose presence has created instability in the region. With their mandate originally set to expire in March, the future of the troops had been uncertain until the recent extension.
During the summit, the leaders also made a collective decision to dispatch a military mission responsible for organizing the former M23 rebel base in Rumangabo, which will serve as a cantonment camp. This initiative aims to facilitate the reintegration of the M23 fighters into society, promoting stability and lasting peace in the region.
Addressing the gathering, President Ruto expressed his satisfaction with the positive outcomes achieved since the deployment of the EACRF troops. He stated, "This was a crucial step forward, and now we can confidently assert that the difficult problem that has plagued Congo for two decades is gradually being resolved." Ruto also expressed his gratitude to President Tshisekedi for his efforts in facilitating the deployment, emphasizing the significance of fostering a peaceful and stable environment in the region.
"We commemorate the two-month-long ceasefire and extend our congratulations to all those involved in making this achievement possible," added Ruto, acknowledging the collective efforts in maintaining peace.
Furthermore, the leaders outlined a comprehensive schedule for the gathering and reintegration of fighters from various groups, including the M23, back into normal civilian life. This strategic approach aims to address the complex issue of armed groups in the region, fostering reconciliation and sustainable peace.
