SADC demands strict adherence to Doha and Washington accords amid rising insecurity in eastern DRC
- Security
Regional body calls for renewed commitment to peace processes as conflict intensifies
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) convened an emergency virtual summit of its Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation on June 22, 2026, focusing on escalating security challenges in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Under the leadership of Enoch Kamzingeni Chihana, Malawi’s Vice-President representing President Arthur Peter Mutharika, the SADC Troika emphasized the urgent need to safeguard regional stability and promote collective security mechanisms.
Critical security situation in eastern DRC
The regional bloc expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security environment in eastern DRC, warning that the ongoing instability poses significant threats to both national peace and regional integration efforts. According to the official communiqué, “the resurgence of violence undermines not only Congolese security but also the broader objectives of African peace initiatives.”
In a strongly worded statement, SADC leaders reiterated their call for unconditional respect of the Doha and Washington peace accords, particularly the ceasefire provisions that have yet to be fully implemented. The organization stressed that African-led peace processes, supported by international partners, remain essential for achieving lasting stability and resilience in the region.
Ebola resurgence compounds challenges
Beyond security concerns, the summit highlighted the re-emergence of the Ebola epidemic in eastern DRC, describing the dual crisis as a severe test for the country’s resilience. SADC reiterated its solidarity with the Congolese people while urging all parties to prioritize humanitarian considerations alongside security imperatives.
Roadmap for regional action
The Troika formulated several key recommendations to be presented at the 46th SADC Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government, scheduled for August 16-17, 2026, in Durban, South Africa. This gathering will mark the beginning of South Africa’s 12-month presidency of the regional bloc, following Madagascar’s recent political transition.
The upcoming summit represents a crucial opportunity for SADC to reinforce its commitment to peace and security in eastern DRC. However, the credibility of these initiatives hinges on tangible progress on the ground, where ceasefire violations continue to undermine diplomatic efforts.
The SADC’s latest intervention follows repeated calls from national and international stakeholders for all parties to honor their commitments under existing peace agreements. Despite these appeals, the persistent gap between diplomatic agreements and field realities continues to hinder sustainable peace in the region.