Staff Reporter
President Mnangagwa who is also the Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), has called for stronger regional collaboration to address the ongoing security crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Speaking yesterday during the virtual Extraordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government, President Mnangagwa stressed the importance of joint efforts to restore peace and stability in the conflict-hit region.
Fighting between the DRC government forces, and the March 23 Movement (M23) armed group has intensified, threatening regional security.
“The situation in eastern DRC remains a serious concern for our region. It is imperative that we, as SADC, work collectively to find a sustainable solution that will bring lasting peace to our brothers and sisters in the DRC,” President Mnangagwa said.
He also welcomed recent international interventions, particularly last month’s United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution, which called on the M23 rebels to immediately halt their offensives in North and South Kivu provinces and commit to an unconditional ceasefire.
“We acknowledge and support the efforts of the international community in addressing the crisis. The adoption of the UN Security Council resolution is a step in the right direction, and we urge all parties to abide by its terms to prevent further suffering of innocent civilians,” President Mnangagwa stated.
President Mnangagwa further noted that the resolutions of the Joint SADC-East African Community (EAC) Summit, held in Tanzania in February, were already being implemented as part of regional efforts to stabilize the DRC.
“The commitment to peace must be demonstrated through action. The implementation of the resolutions agreed upon in Tanzania is underway, and as SADC, we remain dedicated to ensuring that the DRC attains sustainable peace and security,” he said.
Other SADC leaders echoed President Mnangagwa’s sentiments, with Angolan President João Lourenço, who has been actively mediating in the DRC conflict, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic engagement.
“The crisis in the DRC requires a multi-faceted approach, combining military efforts with sustained diplomatic negotiations. We must continue to support the DRC government in its quest for lasting peace,” Lourenço said.
SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi also highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts.
“The humanitarian impact of this conflict is devastating. SADC will continue to work closely with the DRC government and other stakeholders to provide both security support and humanitarian assistance,” Magosi stated.
As the conflict persists, SADC leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to playing an active role in peace efforts, urging all parties to engage in negotiations and respect international resolutions aimed at stabilizing the DRC.
