Expanded Mediation Boosts Hope for Eastern Congo Peace

Southern and Eastern Africa's political blocs have expanded their mediation team to negotiate peace amid the M23 rebel offensive in eastern Congo. The heightened conflict, linked to Rwanda's 1994 genocide and mineral riches, has resulted in heavy casualties and international diplomatic efforts towards a political resolution.

The mediation team tackling the volatile M23 rebel offensive in eastern Congo has been expanded by Southern and Eastern Africa's political blocs. Announced at a heads of state meeting described by Rwanda as productive, this development offers renewed hope for resolving the region's ongoing conflict.

Stalled diplomatic efforts received a significant push as former leaders from countries, including Nigeria, South Africa, and Ethiopia, were appointed to facilitate the peace process. This follows last week's failure of M23 to engage in planned negotiations, further aggravating the conflict after capturing Walikale.

The conflict, deeply rooted in the aftermath of Rwanda's 1994 genocide and struggles over mineral control, sees thousands displaced and fears of regional war heightened. The new mediation team is tasked with mending fraught relations between Rwanda and Congo, aiming for a political ceasefire to stabilize the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)