By Staff Reporter
WINDHOEK, July 11 — His Excellency Dr. Hage G. Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia and Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation, delivered a powerful statement during the SADC Extraordinary Organ Troika Summit Plus the SADC Troika, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding security, safety, and stability within the region. The summit addressed the security situation in the Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Northern Province of Cabo Delgado in Mozambique. President Geingob reiterated the commitment of SADC member countries to address these challenges collectively.
Terrorism in the Eastern DRC
The ongoing terrorist activities in the Eastern DRC have resulted in the loss of more than five million lives and the displacement of millions of people. These conflicts have had a significant impact on neighbouring countries, which have been hosting and providing support to Congolese refugees seeking safety. President Geingob recognized the tireless efforts of the men and women in uniform, particularly those from Malawi, South Africa, and Tanzania, who serve under the SADC Force Intervention Brigade. Their dedication and sacrifices have contributed to the restoration of peace and stability in the region.
Regional Efforts and the Brigade Plus
In May 2023, the SADC region resolved to intensify its efforts to support the DRC. The decision to deploy a Brigade Plus, under a SADC Regional Command, was made with the aim of enhancing the peacekeeping mission in the DRC. The SADC Mission in DRC is scheduled to be deployed by September 30, 2023, aligning with the upcoming national elections in the DRC in December 2023. President Geingob acknowledged that a military approach alone cannot solve the situation in Eastern DRC. SADC called for a coordinated approach to all peace processes and emphasized the need for a political and diplomatic front to encourage negotiations and achieve a lasting solution.
The Quadripartite Summit
Recognizing the importance of a unified approach, SADC, the East African Community (EAC), the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), and the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICLGR), convened a Quadripartite Summit under the auspices of the African Union, with the support of the United Nations. The summit aimed to create a framework that promotes coherence among existing peace initiatives. The agreed-upon framework includes a division of labour and clear timelines to enhance the effectiveness of these efforts.
Security Progress in Mozambique
President Geingob expressed satisfaction with the progress made in addressing the terrorist threats in Northern Mozambique. The overall security situation in Cabo Delgado has become relatively calm and controlled, allowing for the return of approximately 420,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their places of origin. The president acknowledged the dedication and bravery of those fighting to defend the region against all threats, paying homage to those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Continued Support for Mozambique
Despite the positive developments, the SADC Summit decided to extend the SADC Mission in Mozambique to provide continued support to the Mozambican authorities before the mission’s eventual exit. The summit expressed gratitude to all stakeholders and partners who have supported Mozambique in its efforts to restore peace and stability in the Northern Province.
The statement by His Excellency Dr. Hage G. Geingob during the SADC Extraordinary Organ Troika Summit Plus the SADC Troika reaffirmed the commitment of SADC member countries to prioritize the security, safety, and stability of the region. Recognizing the challenges posed by terrorism in the Eastern DRC and Mozambique’s Northern Province, SADC emphasized the need for a coordinated approach, combining military, political, and diplomatic efforts. By deploying the Brigade Plus and engaging in the Quadripartite Summit, SADC aims to enhance peace initiatives and promote a lasting solution. The region’s determination to address these security threats demonstrates its commitment to the well-being of its citizens and the prosperity of the entire Southern African region.
