Félix Tshisekedi Praises SAMIRDC for Stabilizing Insecure Provinces
In a recent ceremony exchanging New Year’s greetings with the accredited diplomatic corps in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), President Félix Tshisekedi commended the crucial role played by the SADC Military Intervention Brigade (SAMIRDC) in stabilizing the country’s insecure provinces. The renewal of their mandate last year to assist the DRC demonstrates a strong regional solidarity against armed groups threatening the region.
Solidarity in Regional Security
President Félix Tshisekedi lauded the partnership built on trust and mutual respect, citing it as a tangible example of effective regional cooperation in addressing security challenges. However, he emphasized the need for this collaboration to extend beyond military efforts, highlighting that combating armed groups requires addressing the economic roots of conflicts. Illegal exploitation of natural resources, especially strategic minerals like coltan and gold, fuels violence and benefits criminal transnational networks, he pointed out.
SADC Contingents Supporting DRC
The SADC contingents, comprising troops from Malawi, South Africa, and Tanzania, have been present in the DRC since December 2023. This initiative falls under the collective security and mutual defense pact of the SADC, aiming to assist the Congolese army in countering groups like the M23 that disrupt peace and stability in the region, as outlined by Minister Lutundula.
The Agreement establishing the Status of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Force was signed on November 17. The former Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized the Congolese government’s firm commitment to supporting this regional force by providing the necessary diplomatic facilities for its intervention. SAMIRDC’s deployment followed the withdrawal of the East African Community (EAC) regional force, prompting the government to seek the SADC for a more effective solution to the persistent security challenges in Eastern DRC.
**Samyr LUKOMBO**