The presidents of Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania have called for an immediate ceasefire in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the withdrawal of all foreign troops from the country.

In a statement after a summit in Nairobi, they also called for the deployment of an international peacekeeping force, saying the conflict in Congo threatened the security of the whole region.

Uganda, along with Rwanda, is accused by Kinshasa of supporting rebels fighting to overthrow the government.

Zimbabwe, Angola and Namibia have intervened on the side of President Kabila.

Sudan yesterday also pledged its support during a brief visit by President Kabila.