The East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have reaffirmed their commitment to restoring peace and security in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). During the Joint Summit held on 8th February 2025 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, key decisions were made to de-escalate the ongoing conflict.

Key Decisions and Developments

1. Leadership and Facilitation

Chaired by President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe (SADC Chairperson) and President William Ruto of Kenya (EAC Chairperson), the summit led to the appointment of high-profile facilitators for the peace process. These include: Kenya’s former President Uhuru Kenyatta , Olusegun Obasanjo former President of Nigeria, and Hailemariam Desalegn former Prime Minister of Ethiopia.

These leaders will oversee the merged Luanda and Nairobi processes, ensuring a coordinated approach to peace efforts.

2. Defense Meetings and Ceasefire Enforcement

On 21st February 2025, EAC Chiefs of Defense Forces (CDFs) convened in Nairobi to discuss security concerns, followed by a separate SADC meeting in Dar es Salaam. These discussions were guided by six key directives, including: Immediate and unconditional ceasefire, Humanitarian assistance provision, Reopening of main supply routes, Development of a securitization plan for Goma, Reopening of Goma Airport, and Advisory on other necessary interventions.

A joint EAC-SADC Chiefs of Defense Forces Meeting is scheduled for 24th February 2025, ahead of the Joint Ministerial Meeting on 28th February 2025, where ceasefire implementation details will be finalized.

3. Urgent Call for Compliance

All armed actors, including M23 rebels, have been urged to adhere to the ceasefire agreement and immediately halt hostilities. The Joint EAC-SADC peace process remains actively engaged in stabilizing the region.

Looking Ahead

With high-level diplomatic engagement and strategic security measures in place, the EAC-SADC coalition remains determined to bring lasting peace to Eastern DRC. The upcoming ministerial meeting is expected to solidify key resolutions, ensuring progress in the regional peacebuilding agenda.

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