The military of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) officially declared the commencement of joint military operations with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in the eastern part of the country. Lieutenant General Fall Sikabwe, the coordinator of military operations for DRC in North Kivu, made this announcement during the inaugural joint meeting between the DRC military and SADC in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province.
This collaboration is aimed at addressing the ongoing threat posed by the rebels of the March 23 Movement (M23), who have established a stronghold in several areas within the territories of Masisi and Rutshuru, both located in North Kivu. The SADC military force, comprising predominantly of troops from South Africa, Tanzania, and Malawi, is mandated to undertake offensive operations against the M23 rebels.
Lieutenant General Fall Sikabwe emphasized the offensive nature of SADC’s mission, stating, “The SADC comes with an offensive mission. With the mandate of the heads of state member of the SADC, we will initiate large-scale operations against the enemies of the Republic.” The primary goal is to bring an end to the persistent hostilities that have plagued the region for months.
Notably, this SADC military force is stepping in to replace the regional force of the East African Community (EAC), which the DRC authorities deemed ineffective. South Africa and Malawi have already deployed a portion of their troops to Goma, while Tanzania aims to transfer its elements currently within the UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC.
As of late Monday, violent clashes erupted between the M23 rebels and the Congolese military in the Masisi territory. The conflict has resulted in the detonation of heavy and light weapons, prompting a significant number of residents to flee to the town of Sake, considered the last defensive position of the city.
Goma, renowned for its economic activities and as a tourist town in the region, faced occupation by the M23 for a period of ten days in December 2012. The current joint military operations with SADC support reflect the determination of the DRC to address the security challenges in the eastern part of the country and protect its citizens.
