President William Ruto has described the newly signed peace agreement between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as a significant step towards ending decades of conflict in the region.
Speaking after witnessing the signing at the Donald J. Trump United States Institute of Peace, Ruto highlighted the human and economic toll of prolonged instability in eastern DRC.
In a statement on X, Ruto noted that the conflict has claimed countless lives, displaced families, and disrupted cross-border trade, which has long been a driver of regional development.
“A generation of children has been denied education and a stable childhood. The prolonged suffering is a profound injustice,” he said.
The accord, signed by DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, marks a diplomatic milestone facilitated by the United States, the East African Community (EAC), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Ruto commended the role of U.S. leadership, particularly that of former President Donald Trump, in supporting the mediation process that culminated in the agreement.
Kenya, as a key member of the EAC, has historically been involved in promoting peace and stability in the Great Lakes region.
The Washington Accord outlines commitments for both parties to uphold peace, restore security, and facilitate the safe return of displaced populations.
Ruto called on all stakeholders to implement the accord faithfully, emphasizing that adherence is essential for restoring normalcy and enabling residents of eastern DRC to rebuild their communities.
He expressed optimism that the agreement could usher in a period of cooperation, stability, and sustainable development for both countries and the wider East African region.
The agreement comes after more than three decades of intermittent conflict involving armed groups, regional tensions, and humanitarian crises, particularly in eastern DRC.