Rwanda and Congo Sign Historic Peace Deal in Washington
President Donald Trump will host the leaders of Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo at the White House tomorrow to sign what's being called a "historic peace agreement." The deal, brokered by Trump, aims to end decades of conflict in one of Africa's most unstable regions.
White House spokesperson Caroline Levitt confirmed the signing ceremony will bring together Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. But this isn't just about stopping the fighting - there's a bigger economic picture here.
Tshisekedi's spokesperson, Tina Salama, said the agreement includes regional integration plans that the Congolese president has wanted since taking office. This matters because both countries sit on massive mineral reserves that power everything from smartphones to electric car batteries.
The timing is crucial for global markets. Congo produces about 70% of the world's cobalt, essential for battery production, while the region has been plagued by armed groups and instability for years. Rwanda's Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe confirmed Kagame's Washington visit but didn't share details.
For investors and tech companies, stable access to these minerals could reshape supply chains. The conflict has disrupted mining operations and made it harder for companies to source materials ethically. A lasting peace deal could open up billions in investment opportunities.
The real test will be implementation. Previous peace agreements in the region have fallen apart, but Trump's direct involvement and the economic incentives for both countries suggest this one might have better staying power. Regional integration could also boost trade and create new markets across central Africa.
Sara Khaled