Togo’s mediator engages Congo’s envoy on eastern DRC security challenges

Lomé, Togo — The Togolese Prime Minister and African Union mediator for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)-Rwanda conflict, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, held talks with Floribert Anzuluni, a special envoy of DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. The meeting, held in Pya within the Kozah prefecture, focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and addressing the escalating security crisis in eastern DRC.

Key discussions on regional stability and mediation efforts

The talks centered on the persistent armed conflicts in eastern DRC, particularly the activities of the AFR/M23 rebel group, which the Congolese government and international observers accuse of receiving military and logistical support from Rwanda. Despite diplomatic initiatives in Washington and Doha, the rebellion continues to expand its territorial control in the North-Kivu and South-Kivu provinces.

During the meeting, Anzuluni expressed gratitude for Gnassingbé’s leadership as the AU-appointed mediator for the Great Lakes region. The Congolese envoy highlighted the Togolese leader’s commitment to fostering lasting peace through coordinated regional efforts.

“The Congolese delegation commended the Togolese Prime Minister for his unwavering dedication to resolving the Great Lakes crisis. As the AU’s designated mediator, he continues to engage with all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful and sustainable resolution to the conflict,” a statement from the Togolese Council of Ministers noted.

Diplomatic momentum amid ongoing hostilities

Floribert Anzuluni arrived in Lomé following a diplomatic mission to Uganda, where he delivered a message from President Félix Tshisekedi to President Yoweri Museveni. The discussions come at a critical juncture, with eastern DRC facing renewed violence and humanitarian concerns.

The eastern provinces remain a flashpoint, with the AFR/M23 rebellion consolidating its position despite international condemnation. Meanwhile, regional leaders are ramping up mediation efforts to prevent further destabilization in the Great Lakes region.

These engagements follow a recent high-level meeting in Lomé, where Faure Gnassingbé underscored the need for enhanced collaboration among regional organizations, including the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), to streamline peace efforts.

Broader regional consultations and future steps

The Lomé meeting is part of a broader diplomatic push, including recent consultations by Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye with religious leaders and opposition figures in DRC. Additionally, President Denis Sassou Nguesso of Congo-Brazzaville hosted Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo to discuss political developments in DRC.

As the AU mediator, Gnassingbé has been instrumental in organizing technical reviews of the peace process, including a June 7–8, 2026, evaluation session in Lomé. The aim is to align mediation strategies and ensure sustained international support for stability in eastern DRC.

“A united and coordinated approach by regional and global actors is essential to consolidate progress and achieve enduring peace in the Great Lakes,” Gnassingbé stated.

Historical context and ongoing initiatives

This latest round of discussions builds on previous diplomatic efforts, including a January 2026 high-level meeting in Lomé, which brought together former heads of state, EAC and SADC representatives, and international partners. The goal remains to rebuild trust, advance dialogue, and uphold commitments made by all parties involved in the peace process.

The evolving security situation in DRC continues to demand urgent action, with stakeholders emphasizing the need for a collective response to end the cycle of violence and restore stability in the region.