Heads of State and Government from across Africa gathered in Entebbe, Uganda, for the 12th High-Level Meeting of the Regional Oversight Mechanism (ROM) of the Peace, Security and Cooperation (PSC) Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the region.
Chaired by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the meeting brought together leaders and representatives from 13 signatory countries of the PSC Framework, alongside key regional and international guarantor institutions—namely the African Union, the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), and the United Nations. The meeting also included international observers and development partners.
At the heart of the discussions was the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in eastern DRC. The leaders condemned the increasing violence, displacement of civilians, and widespread human rights abuses, including conflict-related sexual violence. Strong condemnation was directed at armed groups like M23/AFC, FDLR, ADF, RED Tabara, and CODECO, with calls for immediate disarmament and the cessation of external support to these militias.
The meeting adopted a comprehensive Action Plan aimed at revitalizing the PSC Framework, reaffirming its importance as a cornerstone in tackling the root causes of conflict in the region. The plan, developed by the Technical Support Committee and reviewed by foreign ministers, outlines practical steps for stronger coordination, accountability, and regional solidarity.
Key outcomes of the summit included:
- A united call for respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity among member states and a renewed pledge to refrain from supporting armed groups or harboring individuals accused of serious international crimes.
- Support for Sudan’s peace roadmap and condemnation of atrocities by the RSF rebel militia, including drone strikes threatening humanitarian operations in Port Sudan.
- Commendation of Uganda’s role in military operations against the ADF and regional infrastructure projects promoting economic stability and peace.
- Recognition of diplomatic efforts by Angola, Togo, the United States, and Qatar in facilitating dialogue between the DRC, Rwanda, and armed factions.
- Endorsement of inclusive peacebuilding, with a strong emphasis on the participation of women and youth. A group of women mediators will be established, and existing youth and women peace fora will be strengthened.
- Commitment to fight impunity and illicit resource exploitation, urging full implementation of existing protocols and regional legal frameworks.
The meeting also acknowledged the findings of the independent assessment conducted on the PSC Framework’s 10th anniversary and resolved to improve peer review mechanisms among member states to ensure adherence to commitments.
As the region grapples with recurring cycles of violence and instability, the Entebbe summit marked a significant reaffirmation of political will among African leaders to work collectively towards lasting peace, security, and development.
The next High-Level ROM meeting is expected to evaluate the implementation of the newly adopted Action Plan and the operationalization of new accountability mechanisms, setting the tone for a more resilient and cooperative Great Lakes region.
