African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf strongly condemned Wednesday's drone strike in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which killed at least three civilians and destroyed residential infrastructure. Among the victims was a French aid worker, highlighting risks faced by humanitarian personnel in conflict zones.
In a statement released Thursday, Youssouf emphasized that attacks endangering civilians violate international humanitarian law. The AUC urged all parties to exercise restraint to prevent further escalation of tensions in the mineral-rich region, which has endured decades of instability.
The commission called for an impartial investigation into the strike and reaffirmed support for ongoing mediation efforts to secure a lasting ceasefire. This incident occurs amid heightened international scrutiny of DRC's security landscape, particularly as global demand for cobalt and other critical minerals intensifies.
Analysts warn that renewed violence could disrupt supply chains and deter foreign investment in Central Africa's economic hub. The AUC's response underscores the growing role of regional organizations in addressing security challenges with global implications.
