DRC and Rwanda Hold Inaugural Joint Oversight Committee Meeting to Advance Peace Agreement Implementation

Washington, D.C., United States — Representatives from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Rwanda convened on July 31, 2025, for the first-ever meeting of the Joint Oversight Committee established under the recent peace agreement signed in Washington, D.C., on June 27, 2025. 

The historic gathering also included observers from key international partners such as the United States, the State of Qatar, the Republic of Togo (in its capacity as the African Union facilitator), and the African Union Commission.

The creation of the Joint Oversight Committee marks a critical step in operationalising the comprehensive peace accord aimed at resolving longstanding tensions between the two neighbouring countries. 

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The Committee’s mandate is wide-ranging and pivotal: it serves as the authoritative forum to oversee the implementation of the peace accord, address and resolve disputes amicably, and receive complaints regarding alleged violations of the agreement.

By providing a structured mechanism for dialogue, the Committee aims to build mutual trust, ensure accountability, and pave the way for lasting peace in the historically volatile Great Lakes region.

Key Outcomes from the First Meeting

During this inaugural session, the parties accomplished several foundational tasks essential for the Committee’s effective operation:

• Selection of Chairpersons: Both the DRC and Rwanda appointed their respective Chairpersons to jointly lead the Committee’s activities and foster equitable dialogue.
• Adoption of Terms of Reference: The Committee formalised its operating procedures and guidelines, ensuring transparent and consistent governance of future meetings and disputes.
• Implementation Review and Planning: The members discussed progress made thus far on executing the provisions of the peace agreement and aligned on coordinated strategies moving forward.
• Preparation for Joint Security Coordination: The Committee laid the groundwork for the upcoming first meeting of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism, a vital component designed to oversee security arrangements and foster cooperation on the ground.

International Partners Align Efforts

The presence and active engagement of the African Union, Qatar, and the United States underscored the multi-stakeholder commitment to sustainable peace. 

These partners emphasised the importance of harmonising efforts to support dialogue and reconciliation while helping both countries meet their obligations under the agreement.

Both DRC and Rwandan delegates expressed gratitude for the indispensable support and diplomatic partnership provided by these international actors, recognising their roles in facilitating a conducive environment for peacebuilding.

Background and Significance

The June 2025 peace agreement followed years of conflict, mistrust, and intermittent hostilities between the DRC and Rwanda, particularly over issues relating to border security, rebel groups, and economic cooperation. 

The accord is seen as a landmark framework that outlines commitments on security, political dialogue, and human rights, aiming to stabilise the region and foster bilateral cooperation.

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The establishment of the Joint Oversight Committee operationalises key provisions of the agreement, offering a platform to manage inevitable challenges proactively and prevent escalation.

The success of this initial meeting sets a positive precedent for ongoing cooperation. The Committee’s next steps include convening the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism and continuing to monitor the implementation pace while addressing grievances constructively.

As the DRC and Rwanda embark on this peace implementation journey, the international community remains closely committed to supporting regional stability and sustainable development in the Great Lakes region.