Critics urge Capital Hill to prioritize solutions for DRC conflict

Critics are calling on Capital Hill to present effective strategies aimed at ending the ongoing hostilities between regional peacekeeping troops and M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The demand follows intensified clashes between the two sides, prompting the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to convene in search of a lasting resolution.

In recent weeks, the conflict has claimed the lives of three Malawian soldiers and 11 South African soldiers, part of the SADC mission, as they battled with M23 rebels advancing on the city of Goma, which has since fallen into rebel hands.

“To end the war in the DRC, a realistic approach is crucial,” said political scientist George Chaima, emphasizing the need for tangible and sustainable solutions.

Andrew Kaponya, a scholar from the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), also commented, urging leaders to focus on strategies that can bring stability to the region.

While Malawi’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Nancy Tembo, is currently in Zimbabwe attending the SADC summit, she has not disclosed the proposals Lilongwe will present during the meeting.

The escalating violence in the DRC has put immense pressure on regional leaders to take decisive action to restore peace and security in the area.