SADC-EAC Summit
By Mpho Moloi
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) held a joint summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on 8 February 2025. The summit, attended by prominent figures including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, and Kenyan President William Ruto, culminated in a unified call for the resumption of direct negotiations to address the escalating conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
A Unified Stand Against Escalating Conflict
The leaders expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in the eastern DRC, which has led to significant loss of life and a burgeoning humanitarian crisis. They emphasized the urgency of initiating direct dialogue involving all state and non-state actors, notably the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels, to foster a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
In their final communique, the regional leaders called for an “immediate ceasefire” and the restoration of supply lines in the DRC, as the M23 has reportedly been advancing toward Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, after establishing its so-called administration in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province and a key regional hub. 
Emphasis on Dialogue and Ceasefire
The joint summit underscored the necessity of a cessation of hostilities and the restoration of essential services, including supply lines for food and other critical commodities. The leaders reiterated their demand for the withdrawal of uninvited foreign armed forces from DRC territory, with leaders emphasizing respect for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. 
Merging Peace Initiatives: The Luanda and Nairobi Processes
Recognizing the complexities arising from parallel peace initiatives, the summit agreed to merge the Luanda and Nairobi processes to expedite the resolution of the conflict. This strategic move aims to consolidate efforts and resources, ensuring a more coordinated and effective approach to peacebuilding in the region.
Mandate for Defence Chiefs
To operationalize these commitments, the summit directed defence chiefs from both blocs to convene within five days. Their mandate includes providing technical support to implement the agreed-upon strategies, ensuring that the directives from the summit are translated into concrete actions on the ground.
Leadership Perspectives
President Cyril Ramaphosa
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of regional solidarity in addressing the crisis. He stated, “Our collective efforts are crucial in bringing lasting peace to the eastern DRC. We must work together to ensure stability and prosperity for all affected communities.”
President Paul Kagame
Rwandan President Paul Kagame emphasized the need for inclusive dialogue. He remarked, “Engaging all stakeholders, including non-state actors, is essential for a comprehensive solution. We must be open to conversations that lead to sustainable peace.”
President Samia Suluhu Hassan
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan called for immediate action to alleviate the humanitarian crisis. She noted, “The suffering of the people in the eastern DRC is a call to action for all of us. Restoring essential services and ensuring the safety of civilians must be our top priorities.”
President William Ruto
Kenyan President William Ruto stressed the importance of merging peace processes for efficiency. He commented, “By consolidating the Luanda and Nairobi initiatives, we can streamline our efforts and avoid duplication, thereby enhancing our impact on the ground.”
The Humanitarian Imperative
The conflict in the eastern DRC has led to a dire humanitarian situation, with thousands displaced and in urgent need of assistance. The disruption of supply lines has exacerbated food insecurity, and the collapse of essential services has heightened the vulnerability of affected populations.
Humanitarian organizations have reported challenges in accessing conflict zones due to ongoing hostilities and the presence of armed groups. The summit’s call for the restoration of supply lines and essential utilities is a critical step toward alleviating the suffering of civilians.
The Role of M23 in the Conflict
The M23 rebel group has been a central figure in the eastern DRC conflict. Reports indicate that the group has established control over key areas, including Goma, and is advancing toward Bukavu. The international community has expressed concern over the group’s activities and alleged external support.
In a recent development, the M23 declared a unilateral ceasefire, citing humanitarian reasons. However, the situation remains volatile, and the group’s intentions and commitment to peace are subjects of ongoing scrutiny.
International Reactions
The international community has welcomed the outcomes of the SADC-EAC summit. There is a collective hope that the unified stance of regional leaders will pave the way for a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
Organizations such as the United Nations and the African Union have expressed support for the merged peace processes and have called for continued international assistance to address the humanitarian needs in the DRC.
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