The 23rd summit of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) was held this Thursday in Bujumbura, Burundi, marking not only the official opening of the sessions but also the celebration of the 30th anniversary of this regional organization. This event provided an opportunity for heads of state to discuss crucial issues related to economic integration, peace, and security in the region. The transfer of presidency between Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye was also a highlight of this meeting. In this context, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) reaffirmed its commitment to play a key role in the development of COMESA's objectives.

The Opening Ceremony: A Symbolic Moment

The celebration of COMESA's 30th anniversary served to galvanize members around a common goal: to accelerate regional integration to address current economic and social challenges. This historic moment thus strengthened the sense of belonging to a united regional community.

Transfer of Power

The transfer of power between Hakainde Hichilema and Évariste Ndayishimiye was a key moment symbolizing the continuity and renewal of leadership within COMESA. President Hichilema expressed his gratitude to his counterparts for their support during his term, while highlighting the progress made in various areas such as intra-African trade and regional cooperation.

The new president, Évariste Ndayishimiye, spoke with a clear vision for his term. He emphasized the need for a collective approach to address the economic and security challenges facing the region. His commitment to strengthening relations between member states is a strong signal for the future of COMESA.[1]

This transfer of power is not just a change in leadership, but also an opportunity to revitalize collective efforts towards economic and social development. Expectations are high regarding the new president's ability to mobilize the necessary resources to achieve the organization's set goals.[2]

Renewed Commitments

In his inaugural speech, President Ndayishimiye called for a general mobilization of resources and efforts to achieve the objectives set by COMESA. He emphasized that each member state must play an active role in this process, highlighting its respective strengths to contribute to regional development.

The renewed commitments also included promises to improve cooperation in key areas such as trade, agriculture, and security. The leaders present agreed that only concerted action will overcome the obstacles hindering regional integration.

Finally, President Ndayishimiye emphasized the importance of continuous dialogue among member states to ensure effective implementation of decisions made during the summits. This also involves increased transparency in decision-making processes to strengthen trust between nations.[3]

DRC key player in COMESA: statement by President Tshisekedi

President Félix Tshisekedi clearly stated that the DRC is ready to play a central role within COMESA. His speech highlighted the inseparable link between peace and prosperity, asserting that without peace, there can be no sustainable development. This statement underscores the crucial importance of political stability in the region.

Tshisekedi also mentioned the specific challenges facing the DRC, particularly those related to internal conflicts and regional tensions. He called for strengthened cooperation among member states to ensure an environment conducive to economic development.

By reaffirming his country's commitment to COMESA, Tshisekedi encouraged his counterparts to work together to create synergies that will enable the achievement of common goals. His ambitious vision positions the DRC as an essential player in the regional integration process.[4]

Sectoral Contributions

The Congolese ministers present detailed the specific contributions that the DRC intends to make during these meetings. Didier Manzenga, Minister of Regional Integration, stated that the DRC has come with concrete proposals concerning several key sectors such as agriculture, mining, and trade.

The emphasis on agriculture is particularly relevant in a context where food security has become a major concern in several COMESA member countries. The DRC, with its vast natural resources, can play a crucial role in regional food supply.

Furthermore, Manzenga emphasized that the Congolese mining sector represents a huge potential to boost intra-African trade. By sharing its experiences and best practices, the DRC aims to inspire other member countries to maximize their own natural resources to promote sustainable development.[5]

Trade Agreement with Burundi

A highlight of the summit was the signing of a trade agreement between the DRC and Burundi, thus facilitating exchanges between the two nations. Julien Paluku, Minister of Foreign Trade, expressed his satisfaction with this agreement, which aims to reduce trade barriers and encourage increased bilateral trade.

This agreement is seen as a potential model for other member countries wishing to strengthen their trade relations within COMESA. By facilitating exchanges, it not only helps to boost the local economy but also strengthens diplomatic ties between nations.

Paluku also mentioned that this agreement could serve as a springboard to further expand the regional trade network. Indeed, strengthened cooperation with Burundi could open up additional opportunities with other neighboring countries, thus promoting deeper economic integration within COMESA.[6]

Towards Sustainable Economic Integration: Regional Integration

The summit focused on the central theme of accelerating regional integration through the development of value chains in agriculture, mining, and tourism. The discussions highlighted how these sectors can serve as levers to boost intra-African trade and strengthen economic resilience in the face of global crises.

The leaders present emphasized that successful integration requires not only harmonized economic policies but also adequate infrastructure to facilitate cross-border trade. Joint projects in this area could significantly transform the regional economic landscape.

Furthermore, it is essential that each member state actively engages in this integration process to maximize their respective benefits while contributing to collective well-being. The creation of a true common market can only be achieved through close collaboration among all involved parties. [7]

Regional Security

Security issues took a prominent place during the discussions. The ongoing conflicts in several member countries were addressed with particular attention, highlighting the need for a collective response to ensure stability throughout the region. The leaders agreed that without security, no economic progress can be envisioned.

Initiatives aimed at strengthening security cooperation were discussed, including joint programs to combat terrorism and transnational organized crime. These efforts are crucial for creating an environment conducive to foreign investment and sustainable economic development.

Finally, it is imperative that each member country becomes aware of its role in this collective security dynamic. A collaborative approach will not only resolve existing conflicts but also prevent the emergence of new tensions that could compromise regional integration. [8]