The World Council of Churches calls for urgent dialogue and humanitarian support to address the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The Goma Call for Peace emphasizes the need for immediate cessation of violence and protection of civilians, urging the international community to act decisively. Key leaders advocate for negotiation as the only way to achieve lasting peace.
The World Council of Churches (WCC) has emphasized the necessity of dialogue to alleviate the ongoing crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), particularly around Goma. Pillay, representing the WCC, stated, “Dialogue is the only way to avoid further suffering in and around Goma.” The WCC is prepared to support the restoration of dialogue between presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi, joining various faith and civil groups in the Goma Call for Peace campaign.
The Goma Call for Peace is a campaign that calls upon the international community to take swift and decisive action towards establishing peace in eastern DRC. The initiative highlights significant humanitarian and security risks, demanding an “immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities” and adherence to the current ceasefire agreements. It also advocates for the protection of civilians and an urgent humanitarian response, including restoring essential services.
Furthermore, the campaign calls for the resumption of good faith discussions between the governments of Kigali and Kinshasa, suggesting that peaceful and diplomatic methods are essential to resolving the ongoing conflict which has inflicted extensive suffering on the population. The appeal includes a plea for the international community to maximize their efforts and consider all options available for restoring peace.
A petition supporting the GomaCallForPeace initiative has been initiated by a Congolese youth leader, a female war survivor, and Anglican Bishop Martin Gordon of Goma. Bishop Gordon remarked, “Central to the Goma call for peace is a call for a resumption of dialogue knowing that dialogue and negotiation will be the only way to bring about lasting peace in Eastern Congo.”
Mike Mpanya, a youth activist, underscored the moral urgency of the situation, stating, “This is not merely a regional issue; it is a moral imperative for all of us as Africans and as global citizens.” He urged collaborative efforts to shape a future founded on shared human values rather than the principle of force.
Additionally, Favour Ange, a war survivor and advocate for women, girls, and children, stated, “An immediate end to violence is the only way forward in Goma.” She highlighted the Goma Call for Peace’s focus on human rights protection and the cessation of violence against the most vulnerable populations.
The joint appeal for peace was supported by the Most Reverend Thabo Makgoba, Archbishop of Southern Africa, who remarked, “We are at a moment when we can choose to come together in the pursuit of peace or the international community can turn away and allow the suffering of the innocent.” Most Reverend Ande Georges Titre, the Anglican Archbishop of the Congo, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the urgent need for aid and attention to the suffering populace.
The Goma Call for Peace is a significant initiative amidst the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC. This area has faced severe humanitarian crises due to violence, leading to dire security and living conditions. The WCC, in collaboration with various leaders and organizations, is advocating for dialogue among regional leaders and humanitarian support to address both the immediate needs and the underlying issues fueling the conflict. The aim is to mobilize international attention and resources to mitigate further suffering while fostering collaboration for a sustainable peace.
In summary, the World Council of Churches and various leaders are advocating for immediate diplomatic efforts and humanitarian interventions in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. They underscore the urgent need for dialogue to enable peace and protection of civilians. The Goma Call for Peace signifies a collective commitment to addressing the humanitarian crises and restoring dialogue as a path to lasting peace.
Original Source: www.oikoumene.org
