Philemon Jambaya
Zim Now Editor
In a rallying call for regional solidarity, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), emphasized the imperative need for a lasting solution to the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Addressing delegates at the joint convening of SADC and the East African Communities in Tanzania, Mnangagwa stressed that the crisis affects not only the DRC's citizens but the entire region.
The Zimbabwean President urged the meeting to prioritize the interests of the Congolese people, emphasizing the importance of unity in tackling the challenges impeding peace. "We must remain united as we were during the struggle for the complete emancipation and independence of Africa from colonialism," he said, highlighting the region's shared history and collective responsibility.
Mnangagwa's call to action comes amidst escalating tensions in the DRC, where Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have seized control of several towns, despite a unilateral ceasefire declaration. The conflict has displaced hundreds of thousands of people and raised fears of a wider regional war.
The joint summit of SADC and the East African Communities reflects the continent's deep concern over the crisis and the standoff between the DRC and neighboring Rwanda. Leaders called for the withdrawal of "uninvited foreign armed forces" from the DRC and emphasized their commitment to safeguarding Congolese sovereignty.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the conflict has "multiplied" the risk of disease outbreaks, including cholera, malaria, tuberculosis, and the deadly mpox virus. The WHO reported 600 suspected cholera cases and 14 deaths in North Kivu province, where disrupted water supplies have heightened the risk of disease spread.
As the situation in the DRC remains precarious, Mnangagwa's emphasis on unity and collective action serves as a timely reminder of the region's shared stake in peace and stability.
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