The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has called for an urgent joint summit with the East African Community (EAC) to discuss the worsening security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
This follows a proposal made during the 24th Extraordinary Summit of EAC Heads of State on January 29, 2025, emphasizing the need for regional cooperation in addressing instability in eastern DRC.
During the SADC Extraordinary Summit held in Harare and chaired by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, leaders stressed the importance of a united approach in seeking a long-term resolution to the conflict.
SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi, in a communiqué, reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to restoring peace.
“The summit has called for an immediate joint summit between SADC and the EAC to discuss the security challenges in the DRC, following the proposal put forward by the EAC Heads of State on January 29, 2025,” Magosi stated.
As part of its action plan, the summit tasked the SADC Organ Troika on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation with increasing diplomatic outreach to both State and non-State actors involved in the conflict.
Magosi emphasized the critical need for ceasefire efforts.
“The summit mandated the SADC Organ Troika to engage all parties to the conflict in ceasefire discussions to protect lives and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid to affected communities,” he added.
ALSO READ: Chinese National Liu Guorong Accused of Defrauding Business Partner of US$500K
SADC leaders called for a coordinated strategy and urged all political and diplomatic stakeholders to actively engage in peace talks.
They also expressed support for existing peace initiatives.
“The summit encouraged all political and diplomatic stakeholders involved in the conflict to engage in a structured dialogue process, including supporting the Luanda Process, MONUSCO, and other peace efforts to restore stability in eastern DRC,” Magosi said.
Reaffirming their solidarity with the DRC, SADC leaders pledged continued backing for the nation’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and long-term stability.
“The summit reiterated its unwavering commitment to assisting the DRC in protecting its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, while also working towards sustainable peace, security, and development,” Magosi noted.
Acknowledging the efforts of peacekeeping troops, SADC leaders commended the personnel deployed under the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) for their dedication and resilience.
“The summit expressed its support for the DRC and extended gratitude to the men and women serving under SAMIDRC for their dedication, resilience, and service in maintaining peace and security in the region,” Magosi added.
Recognizing humanitarian contributions, the summit also appreciated Madagascar’s pledge to provide medical assistance to civilians injured and displaced by the ongoing conflict
