Owusu on Africa: Why the Democratic Republic of Congo should be the business of every African State

By Fidel Amakye Owusu

In recent months, significant events in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) have created potential risks that could destabilize neighboring countries and endanger millions of lives.

The European Union has sent aid to the region in response to the crisis. Additionally, Kenya, Uganda, and Burundi have deployed forces. Over a dozen rebel groups are active in the area, with an ISIS affiliate gaining infamy for its use of terror tactics.

There is also a looming risk of an interstate conflict between DR Congo and Rwanda.

Despite the African Union (AU) and other regional bodies making significant efforts over the years to resolve conflicts and stabilize DR Congo, much of their work has been ineffective. Nevertheless, numerous factors highlight that DR Congo’s stability is crucial for Africa’s overall integration and development. Therefore, every African state must take an interest in the region’s stability.

Why is DR Congo so pivotal?

Geographically and strategically, DR Congo is central. It is the second-largest country in Africa by land area, situated in the continent’s lower center and sharing borders with nine other countries across different regions.

DR Congo connects Southern Africa, Eastern Africa, and the Horn of Africa, acting as a transitional state to all corners of the continent. Consequently, it is a member of three regional economic communities: the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and recently joined the East African Community (EAC).

These factors contributed to the Second Congo War involving nine countries from various parts of Africa, earning it the nickname “African World War.”

For Africa to achieve true integration, DR Congo cannot be overlooked. Integration involves building essential infrastructure such as roads, railways, and ports to link countries. Without DR Congo, the northern half of the continent cannot be physically connected to the south.

With the African Continental Free Trade Area set to enhance trade and eliminate barriers between states, DR Congo’s stability is crucial. The success of this trade agreement is significantly linked to the country’s stability.

Moreover, DR Congo’s current population and its projected future growth make its stability vital for continental progress. Presently, DR Congo has the fourth-largest population in Africa, and it is estimated to have the second-largest population by 2100.

Additionally, the country’s vast resources and their potential are key to Africa’s industrialization.

Regardless of their location, all African states must prioritize the stability of DR Congo as a matter of national security.

Fidel Amakye Owusu is an International Relations and Security Analyst. He is an Associate at the Conflict Research Consortium for Africa and has previously hosted an International Affairs program with the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC). He is passionate about Diplomacy and realizing Africa’s global potential and how the continent should be viewed as part of the global collective.