The SADC has decided to withdraw its military mission in DR Congo, as troops are no longer effective against the advancing AFC/M23 rebels. The decision follows an Extraordinary Summit, where experts criticized the prolonged deployment of SAMIDRC troops. Moving forward, an organized withdrawal and diplomatic solutions are prioritized to achieve peace in the region.
A defence and security expert has expressed approval of the South African Development Community’s (SADC) recent decision to terminate the SAMIDRC military mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). This decision follows an Extraordinary Summit that concluded that the troops had ceased to fulfill any constructive role in addressing the ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo, where they were deployed in December 2023.
The Congolese government coalition comprises various military groups, including troops from Burundi, the FDLR militia, European mercenaries, and additional local militias. Despite these forces’ presence, they have been unable to prevent the AFC/M23 rebels from advancing, who currently control Goma and Bukavu, two crucial cities.
The South African, Tanzanian, and Malawian troops of SAMIDRC negotiated their surrender in January and are currently restricted to their bases within M23-controlled areas. Their movements are severely restricted by the advancing rebels. Defence expert Darren Olivier has remarked that the withdrawal had been overdue, emphasizing its necessity since the rebels captured Goma in late January.
Olivier acknowledged that while the delay in withdrawal was regrettable, the decision to prioritize an orderly exit while engaging in broader negotiations was prudent. He noted that this would necessitate proper logistics, including repairing Goma Airport’s runway for the evacuation of equipment.
At the Summit, chaired by Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa, leaders reiterated the importance of achieving a comprehensive political solution to restore peace in DR Congo. Their discussions were informed by updates on the security situation and prior recommendations from a special Troika Summit, which highlighted the untenable nature of the troops’ position.
In addition to troop withdrawal, the Summit reinforced the earlier resolution to merge the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes while enlisting additional facilitators to bolster peace-building initiatives across the region.
In summary, the withdrawal of SADC troops from DR Congo, deemed necessary by defence experts, reflects a strategic decision amidst ongoing conflict. The SADC leadership emphasizes the need for political dialogue to restore stability, acknowledging the failed mission of SAMIDRC in addressing the challenges posed by the AFC/M23 rebels. The future efforts will focus on a structured exit and continued peace-building processes.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
