SADC Revokes Congo Mission Mandate Amid Eastern Region Security Collapse
Congo's President Felix Tshisekedi, who attended the virtual meeting, expressed gratitude for SADC's support in addressing the country's security challenges.
HARARE, Zimbabwe — The Southern African Development Community ordered the immediate withdrawal of its military mission from the Democratic Republic of Congo on Thursday, citing deteriorating security conditions in the country's eastern region, writes Winston Mwale.
Meeting in an extraordinary virtual summit, SADC leaders terminated the mandate of the regional force known as SAMIDRC and directed a phased withdrawal of troops.
"Summit noted with grave concern the continued deterioration of the security situation in the Eastern DRC, including the capturing of Goma and Bukavu, and the blockage of the main supply routes, making it difficult for humanitarian aid to flow," the communiqué stated.
The decision follows reports that rebels had captured key cities and blocked humanitarian access routes in the conflict-ridden region.
SADC expressed condolences to Congo, South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania for soldiers killed in the mission and wished injured troops a speedy recovery.
Despite the withdrawal, the regional bloc reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Congo's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
"Summit reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to continue supporting the DRC in its pursuit of safeguarding its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity," the statement read.
Regional leaders emphasised the need for a political and diplomatic solution involving all parties to restore peace in eastern Congo.
The summit, chaired by Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa, called on the international community to provide humanitarian assistance to the DRC amid increasing needs.
Congo's President Felix Tshisekedi, who attended the virtual meeting, expressed gratitude for SADC's support in addressing the country's security challenges.