The recent decision comes as the rebel group continues to gain territory, highlighting ongoing conflict dynamics in the region.
Southern African Troops to Withdraw from DR Congo Amid Rising Rebel Threats
Southern African Troops to Withdraw from DR Congo Amid Rising Rebel Threats
Leaders from Southern African nations announce a phased withdrawal of troops supporting DR Congo's government in the fight against M23 rebels.
In a significant development, leaders of the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) confirmed the commencement of a phased withdrawal of military forces from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The announcement, made during a virtual summit of the 16-member bloc, comes as violence escalates in the region and rebel forces tighten their grip on key territories.
The southern African troops had been deployed two years ago to assist the Congolese army in combatting the Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. This military engagement was initially viewed as a critical intervention to stabilize a region plagued by decades of conflict. However, the situation worsened significantly, culminating in the deaths of 19 soldiers from South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania following the M23’s capture of Goma, the provincial capital, earlier this year.
Despite the withdrawal decision, Sadc leaders emphasized their commitment to ongoing support aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region. However, the reality on the ground reflects a troubling trend, with reports indicating that the M23 has recently taken over Bukavu, the DRC's second-largest city, exacerbating fears of a humanitarian crisis.
As the Sadc discusses next steps, the focus remains on how the region can address the compounded challenges of instability and violence while ensuring the safety and security of civilians caught in the crossfire. This withdrawal raises questions about the future of peace efforts in the DRC and the potential ramifications for the region.
