SADC Mission in DRC Aims to Restore Peace and Security in Eastern Region
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) began its deployment on December 15th, 2023, with the aim of supporting the Government of the DRC in restoring peace and security in the eastern part of the country. This region has experienced increased conflicts and instability due to the resurgence of armed groups.
The SAMIDRC deployment was sanctioned by the Extraordinary SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, held in Windhoek, Republic of Namibia, on May 8th, 2023. It serves as a regional response to address the unstable and deteriorating security situation in the Eastern DRC.
The SAMIDRC comprises a SADC regional force from the Republics of Malawi, South Africa, and the United Republic of Tanzania, collaborating with elements of the DRC Armed Forces (Forces Armees de la Republic Democratique du Congo or FARDC). Their joint efforts are focused on combating armed groups operating in the Eastern DRC.
The presence of SAMIDRC underscores the commitment of SADC Member States to assist the DRC in achieving lasting peace and stability. The mission aims to create an enabling environment for sustainable development and prosperity in the region.
The deployment aligns with the principle of collective self-defense and collective action outlined in the SADC Mutual Defence Pact (2003). The Pact stipulates that any armed attack against one of the States Parties will be considered a threat to regional peace and security, requiring immediate collective action.
Major General Monwabisi Dyakopu from the Republic of South Africa serves as the Force Commander for SAMIDRC, leading the joint efforts to address the security challenges in the Eastern DRC.
Source: SADC Secretariat
