The Crisis in Eastern DRC: A Test of Pan-Africanism and African Leadership

By Ngembeni Wa Namaso*

Introduction

The ongoing crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is more than a regional conflict; it is a defining moment for Pan-Africanism, exposing the strengths and weaknesses of African leadership, the enduring legacies of imperialism, and the state of African consciousness. This crisis challenges Africans to confront their history, reassess their present, and rethink their future, particularly in terms of leadership, unity, and self-reliance.

Imperialism’s Enduring Shadow

The roots of the DRC’s current turmoil can be traced back to the Berlin Conference of 1884–1885, where European powers partitioned Africa with little regard for indigenous communities or existing political structures. The DRC, carved out through colonial greed, has since struggled with its vastness, diversity, and resource wealth—ironically, the very qualities that should be its strengths. Today, the Congo remains one of the world’s richest countries in natural resources but simultaneously suffers from poverty, corruption, mismanagement, and recurring conflict.

The irony is stark: in seeking to preserve a territory created through imperialism, the DRC finds itself appealing to external actors for help against perceived neo-imperialist threats. Recent diplomatic overtures to countries like Chad and Mali underscore the complexities of African alliances and raise questions about the DRC’s strategic choices.

Two Leaders, Two Visions: Kagame and Tshisekedi

At the heart of the unfolding drama are two contrasting African leaders whose personal histories and leadership styles reflect divergent paths for the continent.

Paul Kagame: From Refugee to Regional Power Broker

Paul Kagame, Rwanda’s President, embodies the duality of Africa’s tragedy and promise. Born into exile and raised in refugee camps, Kagame’s journey from displacement to leadership is remarkable. His pivotal role in ending the Rwandan genocide and transforming Rwanda into a symbol of post-conflict recovery is well-documented. Rwanda’s development trajectory—marked by improved infrastructure, relative political stability, and economic growth—has made it a model for many African nations.

However, Kagame’s leadership is not without controversy. Critics accuse his government of suppressing dissent and engaging in regional interventions, particularly in the DRC. Supporters, meanwhile, argue that Rwanda’s assertiveness in regional matters stems from legitimate security concerns and a broader vision for African self-determination.

Félix Tshisekedi: The Politics of Inheritance and Compromise

On the other hand, DRC President Félix Tshisekedi presents a contrasting profile. As the son of a prominent Congolese politician, his ascent to power was facilitated by political compromise rather than revolutionary struggle. Critics argue that his leadership lacks the decisiveness and vision necessary to navigate the DRC’s complex challenges. Under his watch, the DRC has continued to grapple with issues of governance, corruption, and insecurity.

Tshisekedi’s strategy of seeking external military support raises uncomfortable questions about African self-reliance and the continent’s ability to resolve its own conflicts without external interference.

Pan-Africanism on Trial

The crisis in the eastern DRC is a litmus test for Pan-Africanism. How should Africans respond when faced with internal conflicts that pit one African state against another? Pan-Africanism calls for unity, mutual respect, and the pursuit of collective solutions to African problems. Yet, the current situation reveals deep fractures within the continent’s political fabric.

Instead of addressing the underlying issues through genuine African dialogue, we witness a disheartening spectacle: African leaders appealing to foreign powers, regional organizations struggling to act decisively, and media narratives shaped by external interests. Africa’s inability to control the narrative around its conflicts is particularly troubling. Global media often portrays Africa through a lens of chaos and despair, reinforcing stereotypes and undermining African agency.

Media Wars and the Battle for Africa’s Narrative

One of the most significant yet underappreciated aspects of this crisis is the information war. While global media outlets focus on allegations of human rights abuses and other sensational headlines, they often neglect the complexities of the conflict or the historical context that led to the current situation. Rwanda, recognizing the power of media, has made efforts to counter these narratives, highlighting the importance of Africans telling their own stories.

Unfortunately, many Africans, due to short memories or limited access to alternative information sources, are susceptible to biased reporting. This underscores the urgent need for a robust African media landscape capable of presenting nuanced perspectives on continental issues.

Defining the Ideal African Leader

The DRC-Rwanda crisis offers an invaluable real-life lesson on African leadership—both the kind we need and the kind we must reject.

Characteristics of Leaders Africa Needs:

Visionary and Transformative: Leaders like Kagame, despite controversies, have demonstrated the importance of long-term planning and a results-oriented approach. Africa needs leaders who think beyond electoral cycles and personal gain.

Accountable and Transparent: Governance must be rooted in accountability, ensuring that leaders serve their people rather than their interests.

Pan-African in Outlook: African leaders should prioritize continental unity and collaboration, seeking African solutions to African problems.

Courageous and Principled: Effective leaders must have the courage to confront difficult realities and the principles to uphold justice and equity.

Narrative Controllers: Leaders should recognize the power of media and storytelling in shaping global perceptions and driving internal cohesion.

Leadership Africa Must Reject:

Dynastic Politics: Leadership based on lineage rather than merit undermines democracy and stifles progress.

Dependency Mindset: Leaders who constantly seek external solutions perpetuate Africa’s marginalization.

Corruption and Nepotism: Mismanagement and favoritism erode public trust and hinder development.

Victim Mentality: While acknowledging historical injustices is important, perpetual victimhood is disempowering. Africa must focus on solutions, not just problems.

Lessons for Pan-Africanism

The crisis should galvanize true Pan-Africanists to reflect on what kind of Africa they want. Do we continue to rely on external actors to mediate our disputes, or do we rise to the challenge of self-determination? Pan-Africanism is not just a slogan—it’s a call to action for collective responsibility and continental solidarity.

Conclusion

The eastern DRC crisis is a mirror reflecting both Africa’s past wounds and its future possibilities. It is a moment for the continent to decide whether to continue along the path of division and dependency or to embrace unity, accountability, and self-reliance.

Leaders like Kagame and Tshisekedi represent two contrasting models of leadership—one rooted in transformative action, the other mired in political compromise. The choice before Africa is clear: develop and support leaders who prioritize the continent’s long-term well-being or risk perpetuating cycles of conflict and underdevelopment.

In the face of global narratives that seek to keep Africa down, Africans must reclaim their story, define their destiny, and ensure that the next generation inherits a continent characterized by peace, prosperity, and pride. The unfolding events in the DRC are more than a regional crisis—they are a wake-up call for African consciousness and leadership. How Africa responds will define its future.

*Ngembeni Wa Namaso is an Environmental Management Specialist and commentator on Society and Politics. He is based in Yaounde, Cameroon and holds a PhD in Forest Econmics and Management. The views expressed are his