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February 20, 2025 19 mins

This week, we seek to understand what is causing the escalating conflict between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. The historical tensions and recent developments have culminated in a humanitarian crisis that demands global attention. As many thousands this year have been displaced, killed or been subject to violence, we explore the complex background of this conflict, sharing insights on the major players and their motivations. As always, we invite you to join us in offering intention and prayer for the affected. Intention holding and prayers start at 16 minutes 20 seconds.

Suggested Intention Focus for this week

This week, as hopes of negotiations aimed at reaching a lasting peace between the Democatic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda are revived, we suggest holding as our main intention: 

We will that all parties seeking to navigate a way forward in the dispute between Rwanda and the DRC over their competing interests in North Kivu will receive wisdom to conceive a comprehensive agreement that is acceptable to all parties.

Please join us in holding this.

Intention holding and prayers start at 16 minutes 20 seconds.

Chapter Markers:

00:00:00        Introduction

00:16:20        Intentions and Prayers

00:01:04        Overview of the Conflict

00:02:00        Geography of the Conflict

00:07:13        Historical Roots of the Conflict

00:08:49        The Rise of M23

00:10:40        Prospects for Peace

00:18:31        Intention Focus

Sources referenced in this episode:

https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/africa-file-special-edition-m23-march-threatens-expanded-conflict-dr-congo-and-regional

https://humanitarianaction.info/document/global-humanitarian-overview-2025/article/democratic-republic-congo-rrp-1

https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/congo-rwanda-border-reopens-with-extended-service-hours-4924526

https://www.usip.org/publications/2025/02/drc-rwanda-truce-key-african-and-us-interests-heres-how-get-there

https://amaniafrica-et.org/psc-summit-on-the-situation-in-eastern-drc/

https://casebook.icrc.org/case-study/democratic-republic-congo-conflict-kivus

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cgly1yrd9j3o

https://www.justiceinfo.net/en/141061-modern-day-gold-rush-north-kivu-what-law-can-do.html

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/2/14/dozens-of-children-raped-by-armed-men-in-eastern-drc-unicef-says

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cvgmj00zjrpo

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/2/14/dr-congos-m23-fighters-seize-bukavu-airport-before-african-union-summit

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