SADC Summit Resolves to Withdraw Troops from Eastern DRC

By Loyd Matare

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has resolved to withdraw its regional peacekeeping force from the conflict-ridden eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Afrogazette News can confirm.

The decision, described as “bold” and “well-considered,” marks a turning point in the regional bloc’s military engagement in the conflict-ridden area.

The SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) had been deployed to support efforts to stabilize the eastern region, which remains plagued by armed groups despite ongoing peace initiatives.

In his closing remarks, President Mnangagwa emphasized that the withdrawal does not signal an abandonment of the DRC.

Instead, he reaffirmed SADC’s commitment to supporting long-term peace through political dialogue and regional cooperation.

“Our august regional body will remain seized with the political and security situation in eastern DRC,” he stated.

“We must speed up the implementation of decisions made during the Joint SADC-EAC meeting, including the merger of the Luanda and Nairobi Peace Processes, as dialogue is key to ushering lasting peace to the people of DRC.”

The summit acknowledged the sacrifices made by SADC troops and expressed gratitude to the troop-contributing countries.

Mnangagwa stressed the need for coordinated efforts to ensure a safe and orderly withdrawal of military personnel and equipment from the mission area.

“As our Mission enters a withdrawal phase, we appeal for continued support to facilitate the safe withdrawal of all our troops and the evacuation of our equipment,” he urged.

While the decision to withdraw the regional force aligns with the initial mandate of SAMIDRC, it also reflects evolving dynamics in the region, including ongoing diplomatic engagements with the East African Community (EAC) and other international partners.

SADC leaders vowed to uphold the region’s solidarity and to continue engaging with stakeholders in the DRC to secure a sustainable resolution to the conflict.

Mnangagwa concluded the summit with a rallying call for unity and perseverance in the pursuit of peace.

“Our collective pursuit for peace is the greatest tribute we can accord our heroes and heroines, both living and fallen, who selflessly answered the call of duty. Their sacrifice can never be in vain,” he said.

The withdrawal process is expected to unfold in phases, with logistical and security considerations being prioritized.

Meanwhile, SADC will remain actively involved in supporting political and diplomatic mechanisms to bring stability to the DRC.