Staff Reporter

The East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to supporting the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in defending its sovereignty and achieving lasting peace, security, and development.

In a joint communique issued at the conclusion of the EAC-SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government on February 8, 2025, regional leaders pledged continued solidarity with the DRC amid escalating insecurity in its eastern region.

“The Joint Summit reaffirmed solidarity and unwavering commitment to continue supporting the DRC in its pursuit of safeguarding its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity as well as sustainable peace, security and development,” the communique stated.

The high-level gathering, held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, also resolved to institutionalize consultations between the two regional blocs.

“The Joint Summit decided that similar consultations shall be convened at least once every year and as and when need arises to review matters of common interest to the two regions,” the statement read.

The summit, which comes amid ongoing instability in eastern DRC, was co-chaired by the EAC and SADC chairpersons. Leaders from both regional bodies commended their efforts in facilitating the discussions.

“The Joint Summit expressed gratitude to the Chairpersons of EAC and SADC for successfully co-chairing the Joint Summit and for their leadership towards the attainment of lasting peace and security in the Eastern DRC and wider region.”

Meanwhile, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan was congratulated for hosting the landmark meeting, with appreciation extended to both regional secretariats for their role in its preparations.

The joint summit marks a significant step in strengthening regional cooperation in addressing the DRC crisis, with leaders emphasizing the importance of sustained engagement to achieve long-term stability.