The Second Congo War, also known as the Great War of Africa, began in 1998 and lasted until 2003. It involved multiple African nations and various armed groups, primarily centered in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The conflict arose from political instability and ethnic tensions following the end of the First Congo War and the overthrow of dictator Mobutu Sese Seko. The war resulted in millions of deaths, primarily due to disease and starvation, making it one of the deadliest conflicts since World War II. Key players included Rwanda, Uganda, and Angola, each supporting different factions within the DRC. The war officially ended with a peace agreement in 2003, but violence and instability continued in the region.