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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 24031, member: 2262"] SADC Calls for Joint Summit with East African Community to Address DRC Crisis. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has taken a significant step towards addressing the escalating security concerns in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by proposing an immediate joint summit with the East African Community (EAC). This move comes on the heels of the 24th Extraordinary Summit of EAC Heads of State, held on January 29, 2025, which emphasized the need for regional collaboration to tackle the ongoing instability in eastern DRC. At the SADC Extraordinary Summit, chaired by President Mnangagwa in Harare, the bloc's leaders underscored the importance of collective action to find a lasting solution to the conflict. In a communiqué, SADC Executive Secretary, Mr. Elias Magosi, outlined the agreed-upon course of action, highlighting the region's dedication to peace initiatives. Mr. Magosi stated that the summit called for an immediate joint meeting of SADC and EAC to discuss the way forward regarding the DRC's security situation. He emphasized the importance of this collaboration, as proposed by the recent EAC summit. The SADC summit also mandated the SADC Organ Troika on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation to intensify diplomatic engagement with all state and non-state actors involved in the conflict. Mr. Magosi identified ceasefire efforts as a top priority. He mentioned that the Troika has been tasked with engaging all parties to the conflict in a ceasefire process to protect lives and facilitate humanitarian support for affected communities. Furthermore, Mr. Magosi advocated for a coordinated approach, urging political and diplomatic leaders to participate actively in meaningful dialogue. He reaffirmed SADC's support for existing peace initiatives, including the Luanda Process and MONUSCO, to restore peace and security in eastern DRC. The SADC leaders also expressed their unwavering commitment to the DRC's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and long-term stability. They pledged ongoing support for the country's development and security. Mr. Magosi emphasized that the summit reaffirmed its solidarity with the DRC and its pursuit of independence and sustainable peace. The summit acknowledged the efforts of the troops deployed under the SADC Mission in DRC (SAMIDRC) for their dedication to peacekeeping operations. It also recognized Madagascar's humanitarian gesture, pledging medical support to injured and displaced civilians in the conflict zone. Additionally, the summit appreciated DRC President Félix Tshisekedi's gratitude for SADC's continued support. Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation, was commended for her leadership in regional peace and security matters. The summit congratulated Mozambique's newly elected President, Daniel Francisco Chapo, and welcomed his participation in SADC's leadership. It also thanked President Mnangagwa for convening the Extraordinary Summit and fostering regional cooperation for peace and stability. In his closing remarks, President Mnangagwa expressed confidence in the concrete decisions made during the summit, believing they will significantly contribute to ongoing peace efforts in the eastern DRC. He emphasized the region's commitment to solidarity and its common destiny, stating that these principles are crucial to achieving their shared goals. President Mnangagwa underscored the responsibility of SADC member states to work collectively to silence the guns and ensure the region's and Africa's global role, particularly in achieving peace and security aspirations. [/QUOTE]

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