SADC Peacekeeping Mission Ends in DRC Amidst Rising Tensions and Global Uncertainty

The SADC has ended its peacekeeping mission in the DRC following the deadly assault by M23 rebels. The withdrawal highlights challenges in maintaining stability in conflict zones, especially in light of public opposition and diminishing funding for peacekeeping operations. Ongoing conflicts, particularly in Sudan, reveal gaps in international attention and intervention.

On March 13, leaders of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) announced the conclusion of their peacekeeping mandate in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following the tragic deaths of over a dozen peacekeepers due to M23 rebel actions in January. The SADC Mission in the DRC, termed SAMIDRC, was positioned to counter the M23 rebel group amidst ongoing conflict in the eastern region. This decision to withdraw came after the initiation of new peace talks mediated in Angola between the DRC and the Rwanda-supported rebel faction.

The SAMIDRC was a successor to deployments from the East African Community and the United Nations Force Intervention Brigade, which had been present in the DRC for more than twenty years. Approximately one year after its establishment, SADC leadership declared a

The conclusion of the SADC peacekeeping mission in the DRC underscores the complex and perilous nature of peacekeeping efforts in Africa. With increasing public opposition to military engagements and a notable decline in international funding for such missions, the future of peacekeeping in the continent is uncertain. Moreover, conflicts in regions like Sudan continue to receive insufficient attention, highlighting the pressing need to reassess peacekeeping strategies and commitments across Africa.

Original Source: www.dw.com