Burundi calls for regional coordination for peace in conflict-torn DR Congo

LUSAKA, Zambia

Burundi's President Evariste Ndayishimiye on Friday called for regional coordination in sub-Saharan Africa to help restore peace in the conflict-torn Democratic Republic of Congo.

"I am particularly concerned about the resurgence of M23 rebels in eastern DR Congo," Ndayishimiye said in an address to Zambia's parliament as he is on a three-day visit to the Southern African nation at the invitation of his counterpart Hakainde Hichilema.

Ndayishimiye said by geography, Burundi is part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), bordering Tanzania and DR Congo on either side of Lake Tanganyika.

"Burundi is eager to be a member of SADC so that we can contribute to regional peace efforts and address risks such as terrorism, illicit trafficking of arms and the increasing number of refugees," he said, adding that he appreciates his country's collaboration with Zambia to bring stability to DR Congo.


He also announced a donation of 5,000 tons of rice, beans and maize for drought-hit Zambia.