President William Ruto had a phone conversation with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday night, focusing on the escalating political instability in Eastern Africa.
According to details from the US Bureau of African Affairs, their discussions centered on regional security, particularly the deteriorating situations in Somalia and South Sudan.
The unrest in these nations has sparked fears that instability could spread to neighboring countries, further deepening the crisis.
During the call, Secretary Rubio commended President Ruto for his leadership as the Chairperson of the East African Community (EAC).
He praised Kenya’s efforts in promoting peace through dialogue among conflicting parties. Both leaders emphasized the importance of de-escalating tensions and enhancing security in the Horn of Africa.
“Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Kenyan President William Ruto to thank him for Kenya’s leadership on regional peace and security and discuss recent developments in Somalia and South Sudan,” a statement from the US Bureau of African Affairs read.
The discussions also touched on ongoing conflicts in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and Sudan, highlighting the need for urgent interventions to prevent further instability.
South Sudan Crisis Deepens
One of the major concerns raised in the call was the worsening situation in South Sudan. The growing fallout between President Salva Kiir Mayardit and Vice President Riek Machar has raised fears of a renewed civil war. Tensions within the military have heightened, with reports of divisions among security forces.
Uganda has become directly involved, deploying its forces to South Sudan to safeguard its interests.
This move has stirred controversy, with Machar accusing Uganda of violating a 2018 peace agreement. In a letter dated March 23 and sent to the United Nations, African Union, and regional bloc IGAD, Machar condemned Uganda’s use of armored and air units within South Sudan’s borders.
His claims have been confirmed by Reuters, based on sources close to Machar’s team.
The United Nations has raised alarms over the escalating situation, warning of increasing attacks on civilians, mass displacement, and rising ethnic conflicts.
UN Special Envoy Nicholas Haysom, speaking via video link from Juba, called on all parties to exercise restraint to prevent South Sudan from plunging into another devastating war.
“A conflict would erase all the hard-won gains made since the 2018 peace deal was signed. It would devastate not only South Sudan but the entire region, which simply cannot afford another war,” Haysom cautioned.
Mounting Tensions in DRC and Somalia
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the resurgence of the M23 rebel group has significantly threatened political stability.
The ongoing war has caused a humanitarian crisis, displacing thousands and worsening security conditions in the region.
Meanwhile, Somalia is also facing renewed threats as Al-Shabaab insurgents appear to be regaining strength.
The group has launched attacks near Kenya’s borders, posing a significant security challenge. On March 18, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud survived an attack, raising concerns about the militant group’s growing influence.
Growing Disputes in the Region
Adding to the regional instability, Burundi on Tuesday accused Rwanda of plotting an attack on its territory. The allegations have heightened tensions between the two countries, raising fears of another conflict in the region.
With the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes region facing multiple crises, the US has urged Kenya to continue playing a critical role in mediation efforts.
Secretary Rubio and President Ruto agreed on the need for coordinated efforts to restore peace and stability.
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