SADC Strongly Denounces M23 Attack on SAMIDRC Personnel. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has expressed strong disapproval of the recent assault by M23 rebels on members of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC).
The attack took place in Goma, North Kivu province, on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. A statement from the SADC secretariat in Botswana reported that SAMIDRC swiftly countered the attack, successfully defending themselves. The SADC condemned the attack, labeling it an “act of aggression” carried out by M23 forces in eastern DRC.
The statement underscored that such actions pose a serious threat to the sovereignty and stability of both the DRC and the broader SADC region. It further pointed out that M23’s efforts to extend its territorial control are only worsening the already catastrophic humanitarian and security crisis in Eastern DRC, where thousands have lost their lives and millions have been displaced, particularly vulnerable groups like women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
SADC praised the courage of SAMIDRC personnel, recognizing the sacrifices they continue to make in the interest of regional peace. The organization also condemned M23 for violating the terms of the Nairobi Peace Process and the ceasefire agreement brokered through the Luanda Process, which was facilitated by Angolan President João Lourenço, the AU Champion for Peace and Reconciliation in Africa.
SADC called on all involved parties to honor the ceasefire and immediately halt hostilities, demanding that M23 withdraw from all seized positions. The SADC also urged all sides to respect the peace agreements and to engage in dialogue toward achieving long-lasting peace and stability in both the DRC and the region.
Reaffirming its ongoing support for the DRC, SADC emphasized its commitment to assisting the country in safeguarding its independence and pursuing peace, security, and development. SAMIDRC will continue its work in tackling the deteriorating security and humanitarian conditions in Eastern DRC.