By CISA
DAR ES SALAAM, FEBRUARY 27, 2025 (CISA) – Hon Dr Philip Mpango, the Vice President of Tanzania, on February 26, 2025, held discussions with the leadership of the Association of Episcopal Conferences of Central Africa (ACEAC) at State House in Dar es Salaam.
Representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Vice President Mpango met with the ACEAC delegation, led by Rt Rev José Moko Ekanga, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Idiofa in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Chairperson of ACEAC. Their discussions focused on strengthening collaborative efforts to restore peace in the conflict-ravaged eastern DRC. The meeting also highlighted the escalating violence in the region, which has resulted in widespread displacement and an increasingly severe humanitarian crisis.
The Association of Episcopal Conferences of Central Africa (ACEAC), encompassing the Catholic bishops’ conferences of the DRC, Burundi, and Rwanda, has been actively engaged in peacebuilding initiatives in the region. ACEAC has consistently advocated for dialogue among conflicting parties, emphasizing the importance of reconciliation and social cohesion. The regional episcopal body pledged to collaborate with local communities, governments, and international bodies to mediate conflicts and promote sustainable peace in the Great Lakes Region.
In recent days, eastern DRC has witnessed a surge in violence since January 2025, primarily due to the aggressive advance of the Rwanda-backed March 23 Movement (M23) militia. This escalation has resulted in approximately 7,000 deaths and displaced of around 450,000 individuals, following the destruction of 90 displacement camps. Major cities, including Goma and Bukavu, have fallen under M23 control, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Medical facilities are overwhelmed, with nearly 3,000 deaths reported in Goma alone. The conflict has also led to widespread human rights abuses, including summary executions and sexual violence. The United Nations and various human rights organizations have called for immediate action to address the deteriorating situation.
The ongoing conflict poses a significant threat to regional stability, with fears of a broader war involving neighbouring countries. The East African Community (EAC) has been actively involved in mediation efforts, deploying a regional force in 2022 to stabilize the area. However, the resurgence of violence underscores the complexities of the conflict and the challenges faced by regional peace initiatives.
The Tanzanian government’s engagement with ACEAC reflects a commitment to supporting regional peace efforts and addressing the multifaceted challenges in eastern DRC. Collaborative approaches involving religious organizations, regional bodies, and the international community are deemed essential in seeking a sustainable resolution to the crisis.
