SADC Leaders Pledge Continued Peacekeeping in Eastern DRC Amid Rising Violence

In a critical response to the intensifying violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Southern African Development Community (SADC) leaders have agreed to continue their peacekeeping mission in the eastern region. This decision was made during an extraordinary summit held in Harare, Zimbabwe, on February 1, 2025. The summit followed a marked escalation in violence, particularly after Rwanda-backed M23 rebels seized the strategic city of Goma.

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Heavy Losses Among Peacekeeping Troops

One of the most concerning developments highlighted at the summit was the heavy toll taken on the peacekeeping forces deployed in the region. The mission, which includes troops from South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania, has suffered substantial casualties. Around 16 peacekeepers have been killed in recent months, with 13 from South Africa and 3 from Malawi among the fallen. The tragic losses have sparked urgent discussions on the mission’s overall effectiveness and raised significant concerns about the safety of the peacekeeping troops on the ground[3][4][6].

Call for Decisive Action

Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who serves as the SADC chairman, expressed the need for “decisive steps” to strengthen the peacekeeping mission. Leaders at the summit acknowledged the growing threats from armed groups in eastern DRC, including the M23 rebels, and emphasized the need for enhanced resources and strategies to safeguard peace and security in the region. The call for greater intervention comes as regional leaders recognize the need to adapt to the evolving dynamics of the conflict.

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Joint Efforts with the East African Community (EAC)

In an effort to create a unified regional response, SADC leaders have agreed to hold a joint summit with the East African Community (EAC). The goal of this meeting will be to foster collaboration between the two organizations, which share a common interest in restoring peace to the region. During the summit, SADC and EAC leaders will focus on pushing for an immediate ceasefire and initiating dialogue among the conflicting parties in the DRC. The hope is that such diplomatic efforts will help stabilize the region and reduce the influence of armed groups like M23[4][6].

Civilian Casualties and Humanitarian Impact

The violence has taken a devastating toll on local civilians, with the United Nations reporting that approximately 700 people have been killed and many others injured in recent clashes in Goma and surrounding areas. The humanitarian impact of the conflict is staggering, as the violence continues to uproot thousands from their homes, exacerbating an already dire situation. International calls for greater humanitarian aid and protection for civilians are growing as the conflict rages on[4][6].

A Complex Regional Security Challenge

The security situation in eastern DRC remains complex and volatile, as multiple armed groups, including M23, continue to destabilize the region. This ongoing conflict underscores the challenges faced by regional peacekeeping missions, as well as the broader international community, in maintaining stability and peace in the area. As regional leaders commit to further peacekeeping efforts and diplomatic initiatives, the future of the DRC remains uncertain, with much depending on the success of these coordinated efforts.

Sources:
[1] The Conversation
[2] BBC
[3] Voice of Nigeria
[4] The Citizen
[5] SADC Official Website
[6] Eastleigh Voice