Lomé, April 22, 2025 – (©AfreePress) – Togolese President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé continues his diplomatic mission as the African Union’s appointed mediator in the conflict between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. Following key visits to Luanda, Kinshasa, and Kigali, the Togolese Head of State arrived in Uganda on Monday, April 21, where he held talks with his counterpart, President Yoweri Museveni.
This meeting is part of broader regional consultations aimed at de-escalating ongoing tensions in the Great Lakes region and laying the foundation for a sustainable reconciliation process. Discussions between the two leaders centered on the security situation in eastern DRC, the regional implications of the conflict, and the need for a coordinated approach to achieve lasting peace.
Since his official appointment by the African Union, President Gnassingbé has launched a series of discreet, high-level engagements with heads of state involved in the crisis. In both Kigali and Kinshasa, the West African mediator met privately with Presidents Paul Kagame and Félix Tshisekedi to examine the root causes of the conflict, including the alleged Rwandan support for the M23 rebel movement and ongoing clashes in border areas.
Togo’s approach is based on constructive, behind-the-scenes diplomacy, with a clear focus on rebuilding trust between stakeholders. Leveraging its traditional neutrality and strong ties with key regional actors, Togo aims to play a meaningful role as facilitator.
Beginning on April 16 with a meeting in Luanda with Angolan President João Lourenço — current Chairperson of the African Union — President Gnassingbé’s tour continued through Kinshasa and Kigali before reaching Kampala. These successive stops underscore his commitment to listening to all sides and fostering an environment conducive to dialogue, while navigating the geopolitical and security complexities of the conflict.
“President Faure Gnassingbé reaffirms his willingness to work with all parties involved toward a lasting resolution of the tensions,” stated an official release from the Togolese presidency following the talks in Kigali.
This mediation mission adds to the Togolese president’s broader diplomatic engagements across the continent, particularly in conflict prevention and collective security. His active presence in major security dossiers continues to elevate Togo’s profile as a credible advocate for regional stability.
With the Great Lakes region still plagued by historic rivalries, armed groups, and disputes over natural resources, Togo’s mediation offers a valuable opportunity to reinvigorate the peace process in a highly volatile context.
President Gnassingbé is expected to continue his regional consultations in the coming days, in hopes of fostering a renewed spirit of cooperation, under the auspices of the African Union and in partnership with regional and international institutions.
Anika A.
