DRC envoy makes stop in Gitega after visits to Kampala and Lomé
The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Minister of Regional Integration, Floribert Anzuluni, concluded a high-level diplomatic mission to Burundi this week, following previous stops in Uganda and Togo. The visit to Gitega, the political capital of Burundi, was marked by a crucial meeting with President Évariste Ndayishimiye, who also serves as Chairperson of the African Union.
During the July 15, 2026, audience, Minister Anzuluni delivered a special and confidential message from President Félix Tshisekedi to his Burundian counterpart. After an hour-long discussion, he emphasized the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two nations and addressed pressing regional security concerns, particularly in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Strengthening ties and addressing regional security
In a statement following the meeting, Minister Anzuluni highlighted the importance of the discussions:
« I was received by His Excellency President Évariste Ndayishimiye as a special envoy of President Félix Tshisekedi. I had the honor of presenting a special and confidential message from the Congolese Head of State. This message focused primarily on strengthening bilateral relations between our two countries, as well as addressing the security situation in the region, particularly in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo—a shared concern for our nations. »
The Congolese delegation also expressed gratitude to President Ndayishimiye for his engagement with President Tshisekedi’s message. They commended his active role in promoting sustainable peace in both the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Great Lakes region, especially in his capacity as Chairperson of the African Union.
A history of cooperation and renewed commitment
The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Burundi share deep historical ties rooted in friendship, solidarity, and cooperation. This relationship was further solidified during President Ndayishimiye’s official visit to Kinshasa on June 22, 2026, at the invitation of President Tshisekedi. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to restoring peace in the Great Lakes region, deepening bilateral cooperation, and advancing regional integration.
The diplomatic tour—beginning in Uganda, continuing to Togo, and culminating in Burundi—occurs against a backdrop of ongoing regional instability. The AFC/M23 rebellion, which Kinshasa and several international reports allege is supported by Rwanda, continues to pose a significant threat to stability in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Despite diplomatic efforts in Washington and Doha, a lasting resolution to the conflict remains elusive.
Diplomatic tour highlights regional priorities
The envoy’s itinerary underscores the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s focus on regional engagement to address security challenges and foster cooperation. The meetings in Kampala, Lomé, and Gitega reflect a concerted effort to rally support from neighboring countries and key regional actors in resolving the crisis in the eastern part of the country.