Congo and Rwanda Sign U.S.-Mediated Peace Deal, Opening Door to Regional Investment

Congo and Rwanda have agreed on a roadmap to peace under a U.S.-mediated deal, with both nations committed to working toward a lasting resolution of the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe stated that the agreement paves the way for a definitive peace deal and emphasized discussions on creating new regional economic opportunities, including U.S. private sector involvement.

The agreement highlights significant investment potential, especially in Congo’s abundant mineral resources like tantalum, gold, copper, cobalt, and lithium—key materials for mobile phones and electric vehicles. The U.S. is in negotiations to invest billions in Congo’s mining sector, and Rwanda is also exploring a potential minerals partnership with the U.S.

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, speaking at the signing ceremony, emphasized that lasting peace in the Great Lakes region would attract more Western investment, driving economic growth and prosperity. Congo and Rwanda committed to drafting a formal peace agreement by May 2 and vowed to stop supporting armed groups. The agreement aims to end the violence caused by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels, which has escalated over the past few months.

The accord is seen as a promising step in addressing the longstanding conflict, though past ceasefire attempts have failed to bring lasting peace. The two countries also agreed to collaborate on security measures to combat armed groups and organized crime.

The peace deal, which was signed by the foreign ministers of both countries and witnessed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, includes broad principles that both sides plan to refine over the coming months. Congo’s Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner acknowledged the significance of the moment, recognizing that American companies would bring good governance and reliable supply chains to the region.

The situation in eastern Congo has worsened since the M23 launched an offensive in January, capturing key cities. The United Nations and Western governments have accused Rwanda of supporting the M23, though Rwanda denies this, claiming its military has acted in self-defense against Congo’s forces and militia linked to the 1994 genocide.

Both Qatar and the U.S. have expressed interest in mediating peace. Qatar recently facilitated a meeting between the leaders of Congo and Rwanda, resulting in a call for a ceasefire. Qatar has also hosted talks between Congo and the M23 rebels, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to peace this week.

Additionally, the U.S. has shown particular interest in Congo’s mineral resources, which are mainly controlled by China. U.S. officials are eager to secure access to these minerals and are exploring a deal that would involve private sector investment. Prominent figures, including Trump ally Erik Prince, have expressed interest in helping Congo manage and tax its mineral wealth.