President Paul Kagame spoke to Al Jazeera ahead of the signing of the peace accord between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), offering insights into his perspective on the Washington engagement and the broader peace process.
Kagame explained that the conflict has persisted for many years, but this is the first time it has received such focused attention, with both the Presidents of Rwanda and the DRC coming together before the President of the United States to seek a resolution.
“The amount of visibility, energy, and pressure to resolve this problem has never been this strong before,” he said, emphasizing that the approach reflects a deep understanding of the root causes. He also highlighted its comprehensive nature, addressing political, security, and economic aspects of the conflict.
The process also includes the Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF), designed to foster economic cooperation between the two countries. Kagame described it as a framework that touches on fundamental elements necessary to address the conflict, noting, “I think it captures everything, at least in terms of the theory. What remains is the practice or implementation part of it. That’s where complications arise.”
Kagame further contrasted two approaches often taken in addressing Africa’s challenges. One focuses on broad narratives about democracy, freedom, and human rights, which often remain abstract and rarely translate into improvements in people’s lives. The other emphasizes tangible outcomes, such as directly improving living conditions.
“In my personal experience, both in Rwanda and the region, I find the latter approach far more effective,” he said. He cautioned that peace efforts based purely on abstract ideas can sometimes worsen problems, creating ongoing cycles of management that become an industry in themselves.
He also emphasized the participation of the leaders themselves to work for their country. “The main responsibility is with us; we must be the ones there to make whatever opportunity available or the absence of it work for us or the absence,” said the President. He added that the blame cannot be placed solely on others.
Regarding the involvement of external actors, including President Trump and countries like Qatar, Kagame acknowledged their contribution but stressed that lasting peace ultimately depends on the actions and commitment of Rwanda and the DRC themselves. He also praised Trump’s participation for bringing a practical, results-oriented perspective to the process.
