In response to the recent escalation of attacks by the March 23 Movement (M23) in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC) has taken decisive action by deploying troops to the area.
Confirmation of this deployment came from Angolan Foreign Minister Tete Antonio during a statement made in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Antonio disclosed that countries within the SADC, including South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania, have begun sending military contingents to the DRC to address the resurgence of violence.
The decision to deploy troops follows concerns raised by member states regarding the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Eastern DRC, exacerbated by M23 attacks that have violated existing cease-fire agreements.
Antonio reiterated the commitment of SADC member states to contribute to stabilizing the region, highlighting previous interventions in Mozambique as a precedent. The move aligns with a decision made by SADC heads of state and government.
As an intergovernmental organization comprising 16 member states, SADC plays a crucial role in promoting peace and security in the region. With Angola currently holding the rotating presidency, the organization is poised to take proactive measures to address emerging threats and safeguard stability in the DRC and beyond.