In a significant decision aimed at addressing the ongoing security crisis in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC) has officially terminated its military deployment in the country. This resolution was reached during an Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government, held virtually on March 13, 2025, under the chairmanship of His Excellency Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe and SADC Chairperson.
The virtual meeting was attended by SADC heads of State and Governments or their representatives from Zimbabwe, Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Malawi, and Seychelles.
Phased Withdrawal of SADC Troops
The summit’s key resolution was the termination of the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), accompanied by the commencement of a phased withdrawal of troops. This decision follows the tragic deaths of 18 SADC soldiers in late January 2025, including 14 South African troops stationed near Goma.
Despite the withdrawal, Dr. Mnangagwa reaffirmed SADC’s unwavering commitment to supporting the DRC’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. He emphasized that the bloc would continue to facilitate interventions aimed at fostering sustainable peace, security, and development in the region, in line with the SADC Mutual Defence Pact of 2003.
Humanitarian Concerns and Regional Stability
Leaders at the summit acknowledged that the ongoing instability in the Eastern DRC extended beyond its borders, impacting the entire region. The situation, particularly the capture of key cities such as Goma and Bukavu, as well as the blockage of major supply routes, has significantly hampered humanitarian aid efforts.
Chairing the summit, Dr. Mnangagwa highlighted the importance of an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, a call echoed by both the African Union Peace and Security Council and the United Nations Security Council. He further stressed the necessity of collaborative strategies to improve regional security, particularly through international cooperation and the adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2773.
A communiqué released after the summit called for the protection and free movement of civilians seeking safety and urged all parties involved to uphold international humanitarian principles. It also encouraged the international community, including the United Nations and the African Union, to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the people of the DRC.
Diplomatic and Political Efforts for Lasting Peace
As part of ongoing peace efforts, the summit endorsed the merger of the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes, with additional facilitators appointed to enhance diplomatic negotiations. The leaders stressed that an inclusive and comprehensive dialogue was essential for strengthening security mechanisms and safeguarding the human rights and dignity of affected communities.
The summit also reiterated the need for a political and diplomatic solution involving all stakeholders—state and non-state actors, military and non-military groups—to restore stability in the Eastern DRC.
Regional Leaders Express Commitment
Expressing gratitude for SADC’s steadfast support, President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi of the DRC acknowledged the critical role played by the regional bloc in efforts to stabilize the country. Other leaders, including President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, were lauded for their dedication to regional peace and security.
The summit concluded with a firm commitment from SADC to continue working toward a peaceful resolution of the crisis. Despite the withdrawal of troops, the bloc emphasized its role in ensuring long-term stability in the DRC through diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian efforts.
This historic decision underscores SADC’s resolve to uphold regional peace and security while advocating for sustainable and inclusive conflict resolution in the DRC.
