Former President Uhuru Kenyatta joined President Évariste Ndayishimiye and President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço at the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) to witness the signing of the Washington Accords for Peace between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The accords, signed by Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame and DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, aim to end decades of conflict in the region.
They establish a permanent ceasefire, disarmament of rebel groups, provisions for refugees to return home, and a framework for economic prosperity.
The conflict in eastern DRC has claimed more than 10 million lives, making it one of the world’s deadliest crises.
Speaking at the ceremony, U.S. President Donald Trump said the agreement marked a turning point.
“We have come to the U.S. Institute of Peace to sign a historic agreement that will end one of the longest-running conflicts anywhere in the world,” he stated.
He emphasised America’s commitment to stopping decades of violence and fostering harmony and cooperation between the DRC and Rwanda.
President Tshisekedi highlighted the importance of the leaders and mediators who guided the peace process.
He acknowledged former President Kenyatta and Angola’s President Lourenço for initiating the Nairobi and Luanda peace tracks, which laid the groundwork for the breakthrough.
“These two great Africans were there at the beginning; they started the Nairobi and Luanda peace processes,” Tshisekedi said.
He also expressed gratitude to President Trump and the American people for supporting the rapprochement.
Tshisekedi described the accords as a comprehensive framework that unites a declaration of principles, a peace agreement, and an economic integration strategy.
“The Washington Accords mark a new era of friendship and cooperation and shared prosperity,” he said, noting that the agreement aims to overcome cycles of violence, displacement, mistrust, and defiance.
On his part, President Kagame reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to sustaining peace in the region.
“It is now up to us in Africa, working with our partners, to consolidate and expand this peace. Rwanda will not be found wanting,” he said.
He added that Rwanda’s primary objective has always been to ensure safety and security for its citizens after enduring significant tragedy.
During the event, President William Ruto welcomed the historic milestone, pointing to persistent regional diplomacy as key to achieving the deal.
“Today’s achievement culminates a relentless regional effort. The coordinated Nairobi, Luanda, and Washington processes created the essential pathway that brings us to this pivotal moment,” he said.
Ruto also noted that peace in eastern DRC could unlock one of Africa’s greatest economic opportunities.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta joined the leaders in recognising the accords as a breakthrough for East and Central Africa.
The ceremony was also attended by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, senior diplomats, and global peace partners.
According to Uhuru, the Washington Accords now pave the way for renewed cooperation between Rwanda and the DRC, offering millions of people hope for lasting peace after decades of conflict.
