The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has strongly condemned an attack by the M23 armed group on the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) on January 22, 2025.
The attack, which occurred in Goma, North Kivu, comes amid ongoing regional efforts to stabilize the security situation in Eastern DRC. According to SADC, SAMIDRC forces successfully repelled the assault, demonstrating resilience in their mandate to protect peace and security in the region.
SADC described the actions of M23 as a direct violation of the Nairobi Peace Process and the Luanda Ceasefire Agreement, brokered by Angolan President João Lourenço. The bloc urged the M23 to cease hostilities immediately and withdraw from occupied areas unconditionally.
“The pursuit of territorial expansion by M23 exacerbates the already dire humanitarian crisis in the Eastern DRC, where millions have been displaced,” read the statement from the SADC Secretariat.
The regional body reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the DRC in safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also calling on the international community, including the United Nations, to condemn the attack and assist in stabilizing the region.
SADC also expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to those injured during the confrontation.
This development highlights the ongoing challenges in achieving peace in the DRC as armed groups continue to destabilize the region, threatening both local and regional security.
