DRC: President Félix Tshisekedi’s expectations of Washington
During a recent discussion organized by the Africa Security Initiative and Brookings’ Africa Growth Initiative, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) voiced his expectations for the next U.S.
President, emphasizing the need for a substantial commitment from the United States to find a lasting solution to the ongoing crisis in North Kivu.
President Tshisekedi stated, “There is a competition between Democrats and Republicans to determine who will take the presidency in November. There is currently a policy being developed, so I do not want to criticize it. However, I believe that the approach I will outline here could serve those currently in office, if re-elected, to improve on what they have already done, and for those who may come into office to also study this.”
He stressed the importance for U.S. leadership to focus on Africa, particularly the DRC, which he describes as having immense potential in terms of human and natural resources.
“Charity begins at home, and I would say that our country, the Democratic Republic of Congo, offers many guarantees of a glorious future. Firstly, through its youth. We have nearly 60% of the population aged between 0 and 25 years,” he added.
President Tshisekedi also condemned the ongoing insecurity in the DRC, exacerbated by poor management since colonial times.
“What I would ask from the United States is to take a greater interest in this issue, to help the Democratic Republic of Congo regain permanent stability that will allow it to demonstrate its capabilities and contribute with its potential to global issues,” he stated.
Under the Biden administration, the U.S. has already taken measures to limit military aid to Rwanda due to its support for the M23 armed group, involved in recruiting child soldiers.
This underscores the need for a coordinated and sustained approach to address regional crises.
Jean-Robert Tchandy
