However, we stress that real peace can only be achieved through concrete actions and meaningful concessions from all parties involved. The commitment to an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” must not remain mere words on paper; it requires urgent and verifiable implementation. In this regard, ITUC-Africa firmly calls for the immediate withdrawal of the M23 rebel group from Eastern DRC, as their continued presence exacerbates instability and undermines efforts to secure lasting peace.

Furthermore, we urge the African Union (AU) not to abrogate its responsibility in this crisis. The AU must be integral in facilitating and overseeing the peace process, ensuring that African solutions drive sustainable and homegrown resolutions to this conflict. Regional economic communities, such as the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), must also strengthen their coordination to ensure that regional peace mechanisms remain effective and respected.

The ongoing violence in Eastern Congo is not only a political crisis but also a human rights and humanitarian catastrophe. More than seven million people are displaced, and the region’s vast mineral wealth continues to fuel conflict, exploitation, and external interference. As such, the international community, including global trade unions, must continue to push for peace, justice, and accountability for all parties responsible for atrocities and human rights violations.

ITUC-Africa stands in solidarity with the workers, trade unions, and people of the DRC and those of other countries within and outside our continent who seek stability, security, and economic justice in their territories. We call on all stakeholders to act urgently and commit to ending this conflict and restoring peace to Eastern Congo, the broader Great Lakes region and elsewhere where the guns are still loud, menacing and causing havoc.

As part of our commitment to contributing to lasting and enjoyable peace and the transformation of our continent, ITUC-Africa will commemorate the 2025 Africa Day with a colloquium focusing on peace, industrialisation, and trade as means towards the continent’s shared development. We shall invite the African Union, the African Development Bank, and other critical players on the continent to address these issues before an African workers’ audience towards pragmatic solutions.

Akhator Joel Odigie
General Secretary