escalating violence in eastern DRC prompts SADC emergency response

• Security
• Tuesday, June 23, 2026 – 07:56

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) convened an extraordinary virtual summit of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation on Monday, June 22, under the leadership of Enoch Kamzingeni Chihana, Second Vice President of the Republic of Malawi, representing President Arthur Peter Mutharika. The meeting focused on the deteriorating security situation in the region, with particular attention to Madagascar and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

During the session, SADC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding peace, consolidating democracy, and enhancing regional stability and integration. The Troika emphasized strengthening African mechanisms for conflict prevention and resolution to preserve collective security.

deep concerns over eastern DRC instability

The regional bloc expressed serious concern over the escalating violence in eastern DRC, warning that the instability not only threatens national peace but also undermines regional cooperation efforts. SADC leaders called on all parties involved in the conflict to honor their commitments under the Doha and Washington agreements, particularly those related to the ceasefire.

“Regarding the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Summit expressed profound concern over the resurgence of the Ebola outbreak in the eastern part of the country and reaffirmed its solidarity with the Congolese people,” the SADC communiqué stated. “It also noted the deterioration of the security situation in the region, emphasizing that instability threatens national peace and regional integration.”

The communiqué continued: “The Summit urged all parties to respect the Doha and Washington agreements, particularly the ceasefire provisions, and stressed that peace processes led by Africa, supported by international efforts, remain essential for achieving lasting stability, resilience, and enduring peace.”

key recommendations ahead of SADC summit

To strengthen its involvement, the Troika formulated several recommendations that will be submitted for consideration at the upcoming SADC Heads of State and Government Summit. The 46th Ordinary SADC Summit is scheduled to take place in Durban, South Africa, from August 16 to 17, 2026, marking the beginning of South Africa’s 12-month presidency of the regional economic community.

This meeting occurs amid ongoing diplomatic efforts, including the Washington and Doha agreements, aimed at establishing a durable ceasefire and reviving dialogue among stakeholders in the long-standing conflict affecting eastern DRC. However, these initiatives have yet to yield tangible results on the ground, where hostilities continue between rebels and government forces.

Despite repeated calls from national, regional, and international voices for adherence to peace commitments, tangible progress remains elusive. The persistent gap between diplomatic advances and ground realities persists, as each party interprets the agreements differently, further complicating their implementation.