SADC member states Grateful for UN Support for their troops in DR Congo Peace Efforts

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) leaders have expressed their commitment to supporting their troops stationed in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). At the recent SADC summit in Harare, Zimbabwe, the heads of state and delegations gathered for the closing ceremony. The Economic Community of Southern African States (SADC) welcomed the efforts of the African Union and the United Nations to explore "various ways to support" the SADC troops currently deployed in the DRC.

SADC forces from Malawi, South Africa, and Tanzania were deployed to eastern DRC late last year to assist government forces in countering the M23 rebel group. The United Nations has accused Rwanda of backing the rebels, a claim Rwanda denies. Earlier this month, the UN Security Council voted to provide technical support and equipment to SADC troops in the DRC as part of the SAMIDRC mission. However, Rwandan envoys criticized the resolution, warning that it could escalate tensions in the Great Lakes region, particularly with South Africa.

The SADC summit also acknowledged the efforts of Angolan President João Lourenço in mediating peace talks between Rwanda and the DRC. Lourenço reported that both countries had reached an agreement on a ceasefire and announced that talks would resume on August 20. He emphasized that Angola, as a mediator, had presented a peace proposal to both nations, which is currently under review and will be discussed by ministers from the DRC and Rwanda.

The summit also addressed other regional issues, including the completion of the SADC mission in Mozambique. The organization commended member countries that contributed troops and resources to restore peace in the conflict-ridden Cabo Delgado province in northern Mozambique. Additionally, the meeting highlighted an agreement between the governments of Maputo and Kigali.

Notably, Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi announced his resignation, which will take effect after the upcoming October elections. Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa was elected as the new head of SADC for the next year, and Madagascar's Andry Rajoelina is set to succeed him in 2025. However, only three heads of state—Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia, Azali Assoumani of Comoros, and Roopun Prithvirajsing of Mauritius—were present at this year's summit.

SADC, comprising 16 member states, continues to focus on fostering economic development, promoting good governance, and ensuring security and lasting peace in the region.