SADC leaders agree to phased withdrawal of troops from DRC
In a recent extraordinary summit, the heads of state and government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have agreed to initiate a phased withdrawal of their troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
This decision effectively ends the mandate of the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), which was deployed in December 2023 to assist the Congolese army in combating rebel groups.
The mission faced challenges and suffered losses, leading to increased domestic opposition.
Notably, 14 South African soldiers and three Malawian soldiers were killed in clashes earlier this year.
South Africa’s Defence Minister, Angie Motshekga, emphasized the need to reassess the deployment of Southern African troops in the DRC, indicating that the current situation necessitates a thorough evaluation.
The M23 rebel group has seized significant territory in eastern Congo, an area rich in minerals, intensifying a conflict linked to the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide.
The SADC’s decision to withdraw troops raises concerns about the DRC’s ability to manage rebel threats independently.
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who currently chairs the SADC, called for continued support to ensure a safe withdrawal and emphasized the importance of dialogue to achieve lasting peace in the DRC.
Additional Information: Reuters, Associated Press
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