Johannesburg – Today, the Special Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) convened in Harare, Zimbabwe, calling for the phased withdrawal of SAMIDRC forces.
SAMIDRC consists of troops from South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania.
In February 2024, South Africa deployed 2,900 soldiers to the DRC.
A statement issued by SADC on Thursday, (13 March 2025), following the meeting, declared: “The summit has officially revoked the Mandate of SAMIDRC and has directed the commencement of a gradual withdrawal of SAMIDRC troops from the DRC.”
The statement further emphasized: “The summit reiterated its dedication to tackling the ongoing conflict in the DRC and reinforced its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at establishing lasting peace and security in Eastern DRC, in line with the SADC Mutual Defence Pact of 2003.
“The summit reiterated its unwavering commitment to continue aiding the DRC in its pursuit of maintaining independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, while also promoting sustainable peace, security, and development.
“The summit highlighted the importance of a political and diplomatic resolution that involves all stakeholders, including both state and non-state actors, as well as military and non-military forces in Eastern DRC, to restore peace, security, and stability in the country.”
Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe, formally opened and chaired the summit as Chairperson of SADC.
The statement noted that the summit reviewed the latest developments concerning the security situation in Eastern DRC.
Additionally, it assessed the report regarding the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) Mandate from the Extraordinary SADC Organ Troika Summit held on 6 March 2025.
The summit expressed its heartfelt condolences to the DRC, South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania, as well as to the families of the fallen soldiers who gave their lives while serving under SAMIDRC.
SADC conveyed its hope for a swift recovery for the injured.
Present at the summit, Heads of State and government representatives expressed serious concern regarding the ongoing deterioration of the security situation in Eastern DRC, marked by the capture of Goma and Bukavu, and the obstruction of critical supply routes, which impede humanitarian assistance.
“The summit commended the troops for their selfless commitment, unity, and resilience demonstrated since the mission’s inception.”
The gathering included Heads of State and Government or their representatives from Zimbabwe, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar, Mozambique, Namibia, and South Africa.
