The East African Community (EAC) has called on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government to engage all stakeholders, including M23 rebels and other armed groups, to address the ongoing conflict in the east.

EAC leaders held an emergency virtual summit on Wednesday to discuss the crisis. In a statement, they urged all parties to stop fighting immediately, observe an unconditional ceasefire, and allow humanitarian aid to reach affected communities.

The summit also condemned recent attacks on diplomatic missions and staff in Kinshasa, urging the DRC government to ensure their safety.

Meanwhile, EAC leaders proposed an urgent joint summit with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to find a way forward. EAC Chairperson and Kenyan President William Ruto is expected to consult with SADC Chairperson and Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa on the proposal. Both regional blocs are involved in peacekeeping efforts in eastern DRC.

The escalating violence has left many dead, displaced about 500,000 people, and disrupted water and electricity supplies.

Separately, Rwandan President Paul Kagame has dismissed South Africa’s claim that M23 rebels were responsible for the deaths of 13 South African soldiers. Kagame accused President Cyril Ramaphosa of misrepresenting their conversation and denied that he had received any warning from South Africa.

"If South Africa wants to help find a peaceful solution, that’s welcome. But if it prefers confrontation, Rwanda is ready for that any day," Kagame said.

The South African government has yet to respond.