The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has reaffirmed its commitment to restoring peace and security in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amid ongoing violence by the M23 armed group.
The conflict has intensified in recent weeks, posing a significant threat to regional stability. Despite the tragic loss of sixteen troops from the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) and over seventy casualties, regional leaders have praised the resilience of their forces and vowed to strengthen efforts in safeguarding the affected areas.
During the Extraordinary SADC Summit held in Harare, heads of state expressed their deepest condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and their respective nations. They commended the bravery of SADC forces in defending their positions against escalating attacks and reiterated their unwavering support for the DRC government in protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The leaders acknowledged the worsening humanitarian crisis in the eastern regions, where thousands have been displaced due to the ongoing fighting, and called for the urgent restoration of essential services such as water, electricity, and food supply chains.
The Summit strongly condemned the violations of the ceasefire agreement brokered through the Luanda Process, emphasizing that continued aggression undermines peace efforts and threatens the security of the entire region.
SADC leaders underscored the need for a coordinated regional response to prevent further instability. In this regard, the Summit mandated an immediate deployment of defense ministers and chiefs of defense to assess the situation on the ground, enhance troop safety, and oversee the dignified repatriation of fallen soldiers.
Recognizing the complexity of the security crisis in the DRC, SADC leaders called for a strengthened engagement in both the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes.
These diplomatic initiatives remain critical in addressing the root causes of the conflict and ensuring long-term stability.
The Summit further proposed a joint engagement with the East African Community (EAC) to harmonize strategies and enhance collaboration in peacekeeping operations.
In addition to military and diplomatic efforts, SADC reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian assistance, with leaders calling for increased support for displaced populations. The organization commended Madagascar for offering medical aid to injured civilians and soldiers, underscoring the spirit of regional solidarity in responding to the crisis.
The Summit also discussed the broader implications of the conflict on regional security and economic development. Leaders emphasized that sustained violence in the eastern DRC not only disrupts national progress but also affects trade, investment, and the free movement of goods and people within the region.
As such, SADC pledged to intensify efforts in finding a sustainable resolution to the conflict, aligning with its Vision 2050 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, both of which prioritize peace and security as fundamental pillars for economic growth and development.
As the Summit concluded, leaders reaffirmed their collective determination to support the DRC in overcoming its security challenges. They stressed that peace can only be achieved through a combination of military stabilization, diplomatic engagement, and humanitarian support.
SADC remains steadfast in its mission to restore order in the DRC, ensuring that the region moves forward toward lasting stability and prosperity.
