At the Joint East African Community (EAC)–Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit held on February 8, 2025, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, leaders from eastern and southern Africa convened to address the escalating conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The summit concluded with a Communique of the Joint EAC-SADC Summit [PDF] which outline several key agreements as follows:
Immediate Ceasefire and Direct Negotiations
The leaders called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in eastern Congo and urged the resumption of direct negotiations with all parties involved, including the M23 rebels. This marked a shift from Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi’s previous stance of refusing to engage with the M23 rebels, whom he accuses of being backed by Rwanda.
Withdrawal of Uninvited Foreign Armed Forces
The summit directed that modalities be developed and implemented for the withdrawal of uninvited foreign armed forces from the DRC’s territory.
Reopening of Goma’s Airport and Supply Routes
Leaders emphasized the immediate reopening of Goma’s airport to facilitate humanitarian aid and called for securing critical supply routes to ensure the safe delivery of assistance to affected populations.
Integration of Peace Processes
The summit agreed to merge the existing peace processes of the EAC and SADC and to consider involving additional facilitators from other parts of the continent to strengthen the mediation efforts.
Mandate for Defense Chiefs
The defense chiefs of the EAC and SADC were instructed to meet within five days to provide technical direction on implementing the ceasefire, facilitating humanitarian assistance, securing Goma and its surroundings, reopening essential supply routes, and ensuring safe navigation on Lake Kivu.
Support for DRC’s Sovereignty
The summit reaffirmed solidarity and unwavering commitment to supporting the DRC in safeguarding its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, as well as promoting sustainable peace, security, and development.
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