Ex-Kenyan leader urges more regional troops to DR Congo

Leaders of the East African Community (EAC) have been encouraged to expedite the deployment of more soldiers to the regional force operating in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

According to the Luanda ceasefire deal, more troops are required to take up positions in regions where armed groups have evacuated, according to former Kenyan president and mediator Uhuru Kenyatta for the East African Community (EAC) alliance.

Mr. Kenyatta voiced worry about the deteriorating security situation in the province of North Kivu, where M23 rebels had recently clashed with security forces.

After Burundi and Kenyan contingents landed in eastern DR Congo last year to assist end decades of turmoil, Uganda and South Sudan are preparing to commit troops.

Mr. Kenyatta applauded recent appeals from East African leaders for an end to hostilities on all sides of the conflict.

The facilitator promised to further up preparations for the fourth round of negotiations in Nairobi by enlisting regional and global support for the gathering.

All parties engaged have been encouraged by him to expedite the execution of the third consultative talks in Nairobi's recommendations.

Additionally, he has pleaded for immediate humanitarian aid for the more than 500,000 people in North Kivu region who have been uprooted by the fighting.

Relations with the DR Congo are tight due to the violence; the country accuses neighboring Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels. Rwanda disputes the charges.