The 11th High-Level Segment of the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the PSC Framework for the DRC and the Great Lakes Region

The Peace, Security, and Cooperation (PSC) Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Great Lakes Region has been instrumental in stabilizing the DRC and addressing the root causes of conflict in the region. Therefore, the upcoming 11th High-Level Segment of the Regional Oversight Mechanism (ROM) of the PSC Framework for the DRC and the Great Lakes Region is scheduled to be held from 4 to 6 May 2023, is significant as President Cyril Ramaphosa will attend it.

Aims of the PSC Framework

The PSC Framework, signed on 24 February 2013 by 11 signatories, including Angola, Burundi, the Central African Republic, the Republic of Congo, the DRC, Rwanda, South Africa, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia, aims to end the recurring cycles of devastating conflict in eastern DRC and their impact on stability and development in the Great Lakes region.

Summit Focus

The Summit will be held against the backdrop of a deteriorating political and security situation in Eastern DRC caused by a resurgence of the M23 Movement. This has led to tensions between Rwanda and the DRC, and the Summit will receive updates on various initiatives to de-escalate tensions between the two countries.

The Summit will also discuss the deployment of East African Community (EAC) troops and their role in dealing with opposing forces in the eastern DRC, especially the M23. With 2023 marking the 10th anniversary of the PSC Framework, the Summit will focus on revitalizing the framework and consider a plan to enable this.

Sudan Crisis

The current crisis caused by the clashes between the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces will likely be discussed during the Summit. President Ramaphosa will accompany Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Alvin Botes.

Overall, the 11th High-Level Segment of the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the PSC Framework for the DRC and the Great Lakes Region is a crucial summit that will address the ongoing regional conflicts and work towards a more stable and prosperous Great Lakes region.