Luanda: The Chairperson of the African Union (AU), Joo Louren§o, met with the President of Togo, Faure Gnassingb©, in Luanda to address the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Togolese leader has been appointed by the AU to mediate the crisis, which is part of broader efforts to secure peace and stability in the region.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the meeting lasted two hours and primarily focused on the DRC’s escalating violence since January 2025, which has been exacerbated by the advance of the M23 rebels. This rebel group is allegedly backed by Rwanda, leading to a situation that has resulted in thousands of deaths and the displacement of hundreds of thousands, raising concerns about the potential for a wider regional conflict.
The appointment of Faure Gnassingb© as a mediator comes at a crucial moment, especially after the collapse of direct negotiations between the DRC government and the M23 rebels. The rebels withdrew from talks that were scheduled to take place in March in Luanda, making Gnassingb©’s role even more pivotal in the quest for peace.
The mediation process is expected to be complex, as it involves the DRC government, the M23 rebel group, and accusations of Rwandan support for the rebels. Additionally, a parallel mediation process led by Qatar could introduce further challenges to achieving a peaceful resolution.
The AU’s decision to elect the Togolese President for this role highlights the organization’s confidence in his diplomatic abilities and Togo’s dedication to fostering regional stability. Faure Essozimna Gnassingb© has been serving as the President of Togo since 2005, following the death of his father, Gnassingb© Eyad©ma. Born on June 6, 1966, in Afagnan, Togo, he is a member of the Union for the Republic (UNIR) party. Prior to his presidency, Gnassingb© held the position of Minister of Equipment, Mines, Posts and Telecommunications from 2003 to 2005.