The recently held Southern African Development Community (SADC) and East African Community (EAC) Joint Summit in Dar es Salaam marked a significant step in regional efforts to address the escalating conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Chaired by His Excellency, President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, as SADC Chairperson, alongside His Excellency Dr. William Samoei Ruto, Chairperson of the EAC, the Summit underscored the urgency of restoring stability in a region plagued by persistent violence.
The high-level gathering brought together leaders from Zimbabwe, Kenya, South Africa, Somalia, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, and the DRC, with additional representation from Burundi, Angola, Malawi, South Sudan, and Madagascar. The broad participation highlighted the increasing recognition that the conflict in the DRC is not just a national crisis but a regional challenge requiring a collective response.
At the core of the Summit’s resolutions was the call for an immediate cessation of hostilities to pave the way for peace, security, and development. The commitment to safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC aligns with long-standing regional principles, yet its practical implementation remains a critical issue. To ensure action beyond declarations, the Summit resolved to establish a Ministerial Task Force drawn from both sub-regions, tasked with overseeing the enforcement of peace measures.
However, while diplomatic engagements and solidarity statements are essential, the challenge remains in translating them into meaningful action. The DRC’s conflict is deeply rooted in historical grievances, competition for mineral resources, and the presence of armed groups with complex international connections. The effectiveness of the proposed Ministerial Task Force will largely depend on whether it can coordinate tangible security interventions, mobilize necessary resources, and gain the trust of conflicting parties on the ground.
Another key factor is the role of external actors. With global economic interests at play, particularly in the DRC’s vast mineral wealth, regional initiatives must navigate international dynamics that often complicate peace efforts. The success of this joint approach will require sustained political will, financial commitments, and the ability to counter external influences that might undermine stability efforts.
As Zimbabwe plays a central role in this regional push for peace under President Mnangagwa’s SADC leadership, the country stands to reinforce its diplomatic influence in African security affairs. However, real progress in the DRC will be measured not by high-level resolutions alone but by concrete improvements in security, governance, and development in the affected areas.
The Joint Summit has set the stage, but the real test lies ahead—can regional leaders move beyond statements and deliver lasting peace for the people of the DRC?
