Reimaging the Democratic Republic of Congo beyond conflicts: power struggles and leadership battles in Central Africa

Abstract

It is a widely known fact that the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) sovereignty has been consistently undermined by instability and failure to secure control in the eastern region.1 Reports suggest that the March 23 Movement (M23) armed rebels, allegedly backed by external forces from Rwanda, continue to exploit Lake Kivu and smuggle illegal arms, further weakening Congo’s territorial integrity.2 This prolonged power struggle has led to a relentless humanitarian crisis, marked by widespread violence against civilians, mass displacement, and severe deprivation of basic human needs. Consequently, the ongoing conflict hampers the progressive realization of Agenda 2063’s fourth aspiration – a Peaceful and Secure Africa – highlighting the urgent need for transitional states to prioritize state-building efforts. It is against this background that this policy brief recommends the following key actions essential for all involved stakeholders and shareholders to achieve a long-term solution for sustainability, good governance, resilience and security in the country.