SADC dispatches defence ministers to DRC amid esca...

SADC dispatches defence ministers to DRC amid escalating conflict

Nyashadzashe Ndoro

Chief Reporter

In an emergency response to the deteriorating security situation in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the Southern African Development Community has dispatched defence ministers, chiefs of defence, and Troop Contributing Countries to the region.

The decision was made during an extraordinary SADC summit held in Harare, Zimbabwe, on January 31, 2025, which brought together SADC member states to address the escalating conflict in the Eastern DRC.

The summit condemned the recent attacks by the M23 rebel group and Rwanda Defence Forces on the Government Forces of DRC, the SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the civilian population in North Kivu. The attacks have resulted in the loss of lives, including SADC peacekeepers, and displaced thousands of people.

The dispatched defence ministers and chiefs of defence are tasked with ensuring the safety of SAMIDRC troops and facilitating the repatriation of deceased and injured troops. This move is seen as a critical step in stabilizing the region and protecting the lives of SADC peacekeepers.

In addition to the dispatch of defence ministers, the summit also resolved to convene a joint SADC-East African Community summit to deliberate on the way forward regarding the security situation in the DRC and engage all state and non-state parties to the conflict on a ceasefire process to protect lives and facilitate humanitarian support

The summit also resolved to support diplomatic efforts to secure a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Eastern DRC through the Luanda Process and the Nairobi Process

The summit expressed solidarity with the DRC and extended its appreciation to the men and women deployed in the SAMIDRC for their dedication and service to preserving peace and security in the region.

Hads of States who attended the summit include President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, President Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar, President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, and other SADC leaders.

Eastern DRC has witnessed a sharp escalation of violence in recent days, as M23 rebels have overrun Goma, the largest city in the region. The clashes have led to significant casualties, including SADC peacekeepers, and triggered a mass displacement of civilians.