Southern African leaders gathered in Lusaka, Zambia, for a two-day summit focused on tackling conflict and promoting stability in the region.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation held its 26th ministerial meeting to address ongoing issues in Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The summit reviewed recent peaceful elections in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Eswatini, and Madagascar. Officials expressed optimism for upcoming elections in Mozambique, Malawi, Botswana, and Namibia.
Zambia’s Foreign Minister, Mulambo Haimbe, highlighted progress in Eastern DRC, Lesotho, and Mozambique.
He commended the SADC Mission in the DRC for its efforts and acknowledged the ongoing need for peacebuilding initiatives.
Haimbe noted the success of the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM) in restoring security in Cabo Delgado province.
The mission’s withdrawal is expected to be complete within the week, with confidence that local forces can maintain stability.
“The ultimate solution in the DRC lies in addressing core issues through political and diplomatic efforts,” stated SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi.
He emphasized the need for a comprehensive agreement to resolve the conflict in Eastern DRC.
The summit also addressed transnational organized crime, including drug and human trafficking, calling for coordinated regional action to combat these threats.
