The 20th Ordinary Meeting of the Regional Inter-Ministerial Committee of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) took place in Lusaka, Zambia, on 19 October 2026. Representatives gathered to discuss stability and regional cooperation within the Great Lakes. The Democratic Republic of the Congo currently serves as the Chair of the ICGLR and presided over the proceedings.
The meeting in Lusaka served as a critical platform for member states to address the complex security landscape defining the Great Lakes region. By convening in Zambia, the committee aimed to reinforce the diplomatic frameworks necessary for sustainable peace. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, in its capacity as the presiding Chair of the ICGLR, facilitated discussions intended to harmonize policy approaches among the participating nations. These proceedings emphasized the necessity of collective action in managing regional challenges and ensuring that the mandate of the ICGLR remains focused on its core objectives of security, stability, and development.
Regional Leadership and Diplomacy
President Évariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi currently serves as the Chairperson of the African Union. His leadership role within the continental body coincides with efforts to promote stability across various African nations.
As the Chairperson of the African Union, President Évariste Ndayishimiye has prioritized the integration of regional security strategies with the broader continental agenda. His dual focus on the stability of the Great Lakes and the overarching goals of the African Union shows the interconnected nature of the security frameworks currently being implemented. The diplomatic engagements led by President Évariste Ndayishimiye reflect a commitment to utilizing the influence of the African Union to foster cooperation between member states. By aligning the initiatives of the ICGLR with the strategic objectives of the African Union, the leadership of Burundi seeks to enhance the efficacy of peace-building efforts throughout the continent.
Burundi hosted the fifth edition of the Continental Dialogue on the 'Youth, Peace and Security' and 'Women, Peace and Security' agendas from 10 August to 12 August 2026. This gathering brought together participants to discuss the roles of youth and women in maintaining peace and security. The event focused on the implementation of these agendas across the continent.
The dialogue, held in Burundi, provided a structured environment for stakeholders to evaluate the progress of the 'Youth, Peace and Security' and 'Women, Peace and Security' frameworks. Participants examined the specific contributions of youth and women toward conflict resolution and long-term stability. By hosting this event, Burundi demonstrated its support for the inclusion of diverse demographic groups in formal peace processes. The discussions held during these three days were designed to translate high-level policy commitments into practical, continent-wide actions. The emphasis remained on empowering these groups to serve as active participants in the maintenance of regional security, thereby strengthening the social fabric necessary for lasting peace across the African continent. The outcomes of this dialogue continue to inform the strategic planning of regional bodies, including those under the purview of the African Union and the ICGLR.
