GODAZA Urges Hichilema to Intervene as DRC Conflict Risks Escalating

The Governance and Development Advocates Zambia (GODAZA) has called on President Hakainde Hichilema to intervene diplomatically to help prevent further conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), warning that instability could threaten Zambia’s economic interests.

GODAZA Executive Director Elias Mulenga said renewed fighting in the neighbouring country could disrupt cross-border trade and undermine plans for cooperation between Zambia and the DRC in developing critical minerals for electric vehicle production.

The call follows the launch of the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), a new politico-military coalition led by former DRC president Joseph Kabila and including figures from the AFC/M23 movement. The alliance was announced in Goma on October 12, amid an ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.

Mulenga said the development raised concerns about regional peace and the future of economic cooperation between the two countries.

He urged Hichilema to use his position to promote dialogue and preventive diplomacy before the situation deteriorates further.

“President Hichilema must use his standing as a Prince of peace to intervene personally before the situation deteriorates,” Mulenga said.

He argued that Zambia’s ambitions to develop electric vehicle value chains linked to critical minerals depended partly on stability in the region.

Mulenga added that an escalation of hostilities could affect trade routes and mineral supply chains, potentially undermining the two countries’ economic plans.

He called for preventive diplomacy in line with the United Nations Charter, saying Zambia could not afford prolonged instability along its northern border.

GODAZA’s appeal comes as the new coalition adds another development to an already complex conflict in eastern DRC. The extent to which the alliance will affect fighting and ongoing diplomatic efforts remains uncertain.