Great Lakes leaders to push for peace in region

Congolese President Denis Sassou Nguesso is now the new head of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region. Congo takes over from Angola which has been at the helm of the organisation for the past four years.

During a just ended summit of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region in Brazzaville under the theme, “Fast-tracking the implementation of the Pact to ensure stability and development in the Great Lakes Region,” member states discussed the need to maintain peace in the zone.

The heads of state and government and their representatives also called for unity in their quest to tackle the instability in the Central African Republic. “It is important now to forget the various inter-religious difference so that the Central African Republic can finally find its way back to development and social progress. In Burundi, we succeeded in establishing inclusive dialogue between the government and all the forces of the society to overcome the crisis brought about by the interpretation of the country’s constitution on presidential terms. We are carefully following the situation and we have noticed relative stability in recent months.” Angolan president, Joao Lourenço said.

Members of the Great Lakes Region have encouraged a peaceful return of refugees to their countries of origin.

However, they regret delays in the contributions of some states which makes it difficult for the organisation to function as it should.

The Brazzaville summit did not end with strong decisions. However, calls have been made for the restoration of peace and security in countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi and South Sudan. Former Angolan President José Eduardo Dos Santos was praised for his decision to voluntarily leave power.