Staff Reporter
President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is the Chairman of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), has announced that the regional bloc will take full responsibility inaddressing the deteriorating security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Speaking through a statement issued by the SADC Secretariat last night, President Mnangagwa expressed “grave concern” over the worsening crisis in the mineral-rich eastern parts of that country.
“The Chairman of SADC, His Excellency President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, expresses grave concern on the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in the Eastern DRC occasioned by the offensive operations of the M23 rebels. The Chairman condemns, unreservedly, the cowardly attacks on the UN and SADC peacekeepers that have resulted in some of them paying the ultimate sacrifice for the cause of peace in the Eastern DRC,” the statement read.
President Mnangagwa reaffirmed SADC's unwavering commitment to supporting the DRC in its quest for sovereignty, peace, and development.
The President added that the regional bloc was determined to safeguard the territorial integrity of the DRC while encouraging all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue and peaceful resolution of the conflict.
“SADC further encourages all parties to the conflict in Eastern DRC to comply with the terms and conditions of the existing peace agreements and engage through dialogue for everlasting peace, security, and stability in the DRC and the region,” the statement emphasized.
The ongoing conflict between the M23 rebels and peacekeeping forces has claimed the lives of 13 peacekeepers, including nine from the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and others from Malawi and Uruguay.
These troops were deployed under SADC and the UN Mission in Congo (MONUSCO).
President Mnangagwa extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
“The Chairman of SADC presents his condolences to the families of the deceased peacekeepers and wishes those injured a quick recovery. The Chairman of SADC points out that SADC will assume its full responsibility and take action to deal with the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in Eastern DRC. Those responsible for the situation should be held accountable,” he added.
Since 2021, M23 rebels have seized control of significant territories in eastern DRC, sparking a humanitarian crisis of catastrophic proportions.
According to the United Nations, over 400 000 people have been displaced in North and South Kivu provinces near the Rwandan border, with hundreds killed. The city of Goma, home to more than one million residents, has come under threat as the rebels continue their advance.
The United Nations Refugee Agency has reported a surge in humanitarian needs, as thousands flee their homes in search of safety.
The escalating violence has intensified fears among local communities, further complicating efforts to restore peace and stability.
