Leaders of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) gathered in Harare on Friday to discuss the worsening security crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The extraordinary summit, called by SADC Chairperson Emmerson Mnangagwa, focused on strengthening efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.

In a statement issued after the meeting, SADC leaders expressed deep concern over escalating attacks by the M23 armed group and the Rwanda Defence Force against Congolese government troops, SADC peacekeeping forces, and civilians in North Kivu. They condemned the violations of the July 2024 ceasefire agreement brokered under the Luanda Process.

The summit also mourned the deaths of soldiers from Malawi, South Africa, Tanzania, and the DRC during recent clashes in Sake, eastern DRC. Leaders extended condolences to the families of the fallen troops and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

Recognizing the humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict, the summit called for the urgent restoration of essential services, including water, electricity, communication, and food supply lines.

SADC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Despite deploying a peacekeeping force in May 2023, the region has struggled to achieve lasting peace due to ongoing aggression.

To strengthen security and coordination, SADC leaders agreed to send defence ministers and military chiefs to the DRC to assess the situation, ensure the safety of peacekeepers, and oversee the repatriation of fallen soldiers. They also commended Madagascar for pledging medical aid to the injured and displaced.

Namibia was represented at the summit by Defence Minister Frans Kapofi on behalf of President Nangolo Mbumba.