NAIROBI, Kenya – National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called for stronger regional support for President William Ruto’s efforts to stabilize the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), warning that the ongoing conflict could have far-reaching economic consequences for Kenya and the East African region.
Speaking on the crisis, Wetang’ula emphasized that despite its geographical distance, DRC remains a crucial trade partner for Kenya.
“We may think Congo is far, but it is an economic lifeline for our country. Our major exports go to Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Congo, and South Sudan. Any crisis there inevitably impacts our economy,” he said.
Wetang’ula, a former foreign minister and past chair of the African Union’s Peace and Security Council, urged Kenyan leaders to rally behind President Ruto in his role as chair of the East African Community (EAC) to push for diplomatic engagement in resolving the conflict.
“We must widen and extend support for our president’s efforts to ensure the protection of property, stability in the region, and the safeguarding of our economies,” he stated.
Kenya has played an active role in regional peace efforts, including sending peacekeeping troops to eastern DRC under the EAC-led initiative.
However, tensions remain high, with escalating violence threatening regional stability.
Wetang’ula’s remarks add to growing calls for a unified East African response to the crisis, as stakeholders seek solutions to prevent further economic and humanitarian fallout.
