Ken Giami, Founder and CEO of the African Leadership Organization, has described the emerging peace agreement between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as a potentially transformative moment for the entire Central African region.
In a recent statement, Giami highlighted the long and complicated history that has shaped tensions in eastern DRC—an area affected for more than two decades by armed groups, cross-border hostilities, resource conflicts and political mistrust, all of which trace back to the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The instability, he noted, has displaced millions and stifled economic growth across Central Africa.
Giami said the peace deal currently being finalised could “fundamentally change that narrative.” A successful framework, he argued, would stabilise the region, reinforce border security and reopen key economic routes connecting Rwanda, the DRC and the rest of the Great Lakes region. Such progress could boost investor confidence in sectors such as mining, logistics and energy, while allowing affected communities to rebuild.
He also underscored the potential impact under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), noting that lasting stability could position Central Africa as a major commercial hub.
Giami credited the United States government for its constructive diplomatic role in fostering dialogue between Kigali and Kinshasa, describing the intervention as an example of principled global partnership that supports long-term regional stability.
If fully implemented, he added, the agreement could pave the way for deeper cooperation, shared responsibility and stronger political maturity in the region.
Giami concluded that while peace is an ongoing effort rather than a single moment, the current progress presents a rare opportunity capable of reshaping the future of millions and reestablishing Central Africa as a zone of stability, growth and strategic importance.
