Windhoek, Namibia – President Hage G. Geingob of the Republic of Namibia and Chairperson of the SADC organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation addressed the SADC Extraordinary Organ Troika Summit, along with the SADC Troika, Force Intervention Brigade Troop Contributing Countries, SADC mission in Mozambique Personnel Contributing Countries, and the Republic of Mozambique. The summit focused on the security situation in the Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Northern Province of Cabo Delgado in Mozambique, with the shared goal of safeguarding regional security, safety, and stability.
The ongoing terrorist activities in the Eastern DRC have resulted in the loss of over five million lives and the displacement of millions more. These conflicts have had a ripple effect across the region, as neighboring countries host refugees from the DRC and extend necessary support to help them rebuild their lives.
Acknowledging the dedication of the SADC Force Intervention Brigade, particularly from the Republics of Malawi, South Africa, and the United Republic of Tanzania, President Geingob expressed gratitude for their tireless efforts in restoring peace and stability in the region. In May 2023, the SADC region committed to intensifying support for the DRC by deploying a Brigade Plus under a SADC Regional Command. The SADC Mission in DRC is set to be deployed by September 30, 2023, ahead of the national elections scheduled for December 20, 2023.
Recognizing that a military approach alone cannot solve the situation in the Eastern DRC, SADC called for a coordinated approach to peace processes initiated in recent years. In this regard, a Quadripartite Summit involving SADC, the East African Community (EAC), the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), and the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICLGR) was convened under the auspices of the African Union, with the support of the United Nations. The summit reached a framework aimed at promoting coherence among existing peace initiatives, with a clear division of labor and agreed timelines. Political and diplomatic efforts will also play a vital role in bringing all parties to the table and achieving a lasting solution.
President Geingob highlighted the progress made in addressing terrorist threats in Northern Mozambique, with a relatively calm and controlled security situation in Cabo Delgado. This progress has enabled approximately 420,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) to return to their homes, with more expected to follow.
Expressing gratitude to those who have bravely defended the region against threats and paying tribute to those who have lost their lives in the line of duty, the summit decided to extend the SADC Mission in Mozambique to provide continued support to the relevant authorities until their objectives are achieved.
President Geingob thanked all stakeholders and partners who have contributed to restoring peace and stability in Mozambique’s Northern Province.
