Religious leaders in the DRC commend Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço for initiating peace talks between the DRC and M23 rebels starting March 18 in Luanda. Their support emphasizes the need for dialogue and a comprehensive approach to resolving ongoing conflicts in the region.
On March 16, 2025, it was reported that religious leaders in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) expressed their support for Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço’s commitment to mediate peace talks amid ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC and the broader Great Lakes region. President Lourenço confirmed that direct negotiations between the DRC government and the M23 rebels are scheduled to begin on March 18 in Luanda, Angola’s capital.
In a statement published on Facebook, the Presidents of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC) praised President Lourenço, stating, “We, the Presidents of CENCO and ECC…congratulate and support President of the Republic of Angola and current Chairman of the African Union, for his efforts to bring peace to the DRC and the Great Lakes.” Archbishop Fulgence Muteba Mugalu of CENCO and Rev. Andre Bokodua of ECC welcomed the initiative for direct dialogue, recognizing its potential significance for the DRC’s future.
The religious leaders further highlighted that this peace initiative marks an important step towards broader discussions aimed at establishing national consensus and advancing the reconciliation process necessary for restoring peace in the country. They emphasized the need for a comprehensive and inclusive dialogue to ensure sustainable recovery and stability in the DRC.
In conclusion, the commitment of Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço to mediate peace talks between the DRC government and the M23 rebels has garnered significant support from religious leaders in the region. This initiative is seen as a critical step towards achieving a comprehensive peace and fostering national unity within the Democratic Republic of Congo, highlighting the importance of dialogue in resolving conflict.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
