Ruto Welcomes DRC–Rwanda Accord as Path to Peace
President William Ruto has praised the peace agreement signed in Washington, D.C., by Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. He noted that the deal—now known as The Washington Accord—offers a “credible and hopeful pathway” toward ending decades of conflict in Eastern DRC. Moreover, he emphasized that the accord sets the stage for a much-needed shift toward regional stability.
Accord Marks a Major Turning Point
According to President Ruto, the Washington Accord offers the strongest opportunity in decades to restore lasting stability in Eastern DRC. He emphasized that the people of the region deserve dignity, security, and a peaceful future free from recurring violence. Moreover, he described the prolonged suffering as a profound injustice, urging full and immediate implementation of the agreement.
Ruto Underscores Human and Economic Losses
President Ruto further explained that insecurity has severely disrupted commercial activity and cross-border trade. As a result, economic hardship has intensified across East and Central Africa, thereby slowing development and widening existing poverty gaps.
Kenya Applauds Trump and Regional Mediators
Ruto also thanked U.S. President Donald J. Trump for his “steadfast commitment and decisive leadership” in steering the talks to a successful conclusion. In addition, he commended the East African Community (EAC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and other mediators for their vital roles throughout the negotiations.
Washington Accord Seen as Major Opportunity for Peace
According to President Ruto, the Washington Accord presents the strongest opportunity in decades to restore long-term stability in Eastern DRC. He stressed that the people of the region deserve dignity, security, and a peaceful future free from recurring violence.
“This prolonged suffering is a profound injustice to the people of Eastern DRC,” he added, calling for full and immediate implementation of the agreement.
Ruto Urges Full Compliance and Implementation
Ruto urged all parties to fully honour every provision of the accord. He explained that true success will only be evident when displaced families return home safely, normal life is restored, and regional economies begin to recover. Moreover, he reaffirmed Kenya’s unwavering commitment to supporting peace-building efforts, stressing that lasting stability in Eastern DRC remains vital for the broader East and Central African region.
Deal Establishes Framework for De-escalation
The Washington Accord outlines concrete mechanisms for de-escalation, cessation of hostilities, and renewed cooperation between Kigali and Kinshasa. Moreover, these measures seek to address long-standing tensions that have consistently fueled conflict in the mineral-rich region.
Regional Leaders Witness the Historic Signing
Several regional and international leaders attended the ceremony, including:
Faure Gnassingbé, President of the Togolese Council of Ministers
Angolan President João Lourenço
Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye
Kenyan President William Ruto
African Union Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf
Ugandan Vice President Jessica Alupo
Qatari Minister of State Dr. Mohammed Al Khulaifi
Emirati Minister of State Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan
Their presence underscored strong international support for the peace initiative.
