The U.S. has offered to extend the Lobito railway into eastern DRC as a peace incentive, but Rwanda has backed away from negotiations. Assistant Secretary Molly Phee highlighted Rwanda’s demands related to local armed groups and noted setbacks after Rwanda’s refusal to attend key summits. The U.S. continues to face challenges in fostering stability across Africa, impacting relations with Ethiopia and Niger as well.
The United States has proposed to enhance its investment project in Africa by extending the Lobito railway into the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as an incentive for a peace agreement. However, Rwanda has reportedly withdrawn from this initiative, indicated by Molly Phee, the outgoing Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs. The proposed railway aims to improve mineral transport from the DRC and Zambia to Angola’s Atlantic coast, but efforts towards stabilization in eastern DRC have seen setbacks, particularly due to Rwandan-backed rebels seizing control in the region.
Phee highlighted the complication arising from Rwanda’s demands for the removal of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) operating within the DRC. The DRC government has been accused of failing to act against the FDLR despite international pressure. The situation has escalated as Rwandan President Kagame declined to attend the Luanda summit aimed at addressing the conflict, leading to increased territorial gains by the M23 movement backed by Rwanda.
While emphasizing the challenges, Phee acknowledged the prior diplomatic efforts made by the Biden administration focusing on African affairs, particularly after the significant conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region. The administration successfully negotiated a ceasefire in Tigray but continues to face issues related to Ethiopian security services in other regions, where actions have been deemed overly aggressive and negligent of civilian casualties.
Moreover, the U.S. faces diplomatic hurdles in Niger, where a military coup has strained relations and prompted the revocation of a critical military cooperation agreement. With concerns surrounding uranium sales to Iran, Phee clarified that her remarks aimed to foster constructive dialogue rather than serve as a warning. She expressed a desire to assist Niger in securing reputable buyers for their uranium resources and remains hopeful for productive negotiations.
The situation between the DRC and Rwanda is complex, rooted in historical ethnic tensions and ongoing conflicts involving various militias. The M23 rebel group has been a prominent player since its resurgence in 2021, leading to widespread instability and humanitarian crises in eastern DRC. The U.S. involvement reflects a broader strategy to stabilize the region through economic incentives while addressing security concerns. As such, the Lobito railway project represents a vital initiative aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and economic growth.
In summary, the United States has sought to leverage infrastructure development as a means to promote peace in Eastern DRC but faces obstacles due to Rwanda’s withdrawal and increasing tensions in the region. The administration’s focus on encouraging stability extends beyond DRC, as Phee also addresses concerns in Ethiopia and Niger. The effectiveness of U.S. diplomatic efforts in Africa will significantly rely on cooperation from regional actors and proactive measures to mitigate conflicts.
Original Source: www.france24.com
