The M23 rebels have made significant territorial advances, capturing key towns such as Goma and Kamanyola, prompting fears that the strategic city of Uvira could soon fall into their hands.

The ongoing conflict has already claimed the lives of 14 South African soldiers, who were killed in clashes between the rebels and the Congolese military over two weeks ago. As tensions rise, calls for peaceful political engagement have become louder, with the African Union’s Peace and Security Council advocating for a diplomatic resolution.

Murwira has strongly echoed these calls, emphasising the need for dialogue that encompasses all actors involved. “What we are promoting is peace. Because from peace, you can see development. And what has been the approach in the past was state-to-state negotiations. The peace negotiations. We have expanded this to state and non-state negotiations,” he stated.

The Zimbabwean government has joined the broader international community in urging all parties to engage in constructive talks to prevent further bloodshed and instability in the DRC.

--ChannelAfrica--