Staff Reporter
The East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have appointed facilitators to lead peace efforts in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
This decision emerged from a virtual Joint Summit held yesterday, co-chaired by Kenyan President and Chairperson of the EAC, Dr. William Ruto and Chairperson of SADC and Zimbabwean President, Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa. The summit focused on the deteriorating security situation in eastern DRC and adopted recommendations from the Joint EAC-SADC Ministers’ Report.
The EAC and SADC Secretariats have been directed to notify the newly appointed facilitators and communicate the summit’s resolutions to the African Union (AU) and United Nations (UN) Security Council.
In a press statement released yesterday, EAC Secretary General Veronica Nduva said that the facilitators, whose identities have yet to be disclosed, will oversee the implementation of security and diplomatic measures outlined in the roadmap developed during the Joint EAC-SADC Ministers’ Meeting.
“The appointment of facilitators marks a decisive step in ensuring a coordinated and effective intervention in eastern DRC. We are committed to the swift implementation of the outlined measures to bring lasting peace to the region,” she said.
The summit also directed the co-chairs to convene a high-level briefing with the facilitators within seven days, to be conducted jointly by the EAC, SADC, and AU.
SADC Executive Secretary Elias M. Magosi emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating, “The security situation in eastern DRC remains a serious concern, and these facilitators will play a crucial role in ensuring that peace efforts are effectively executed.”
Reaffirming commitments from previous high-level meetings, including the 1st Joint EAC-SADC Summit in February 2025, the AU’s Peace and Security Council session on February 14, 2025, and the UN Security Council Resolution 2773 on February 21, 2025, the summit underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing the crisis.
The summit concluded by commending the EAC and SADC Secretariats for their preparatory work.
“We recognize the dedication of all involved parties, and we will continue working toward a sustainable solution for the people of eastern DRC,” added Secretary General Nduva.
With facilitators appointed and a clear roadmap established, the region now anticipates the effective implementation of peace and stability initiatives in eastern DRC.
