President Cyril Ramaphosa believes diplomacy is the best way to ensure a sustainable end to the rebel-begun hostilities
President Cyril Ramaphosa has underscored South Africa’s unwavering commitment to a peaceful and diplomatic resolution of the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Addressing the outcomes of a Heads of State summit in Tanzania, Ramaphosa described the summit as providing “a beacon of hope” for the DRC, emphasising the country’s dedication to peace and stability in the region.
The historic summit brought together the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to address the escalating security crisis in the DRC and to explore a sustainable political solution.
As a member of both SADC and the African Union, South Africa has long recognised its responsibility to support efforts aimed at bringing peace to a nation torn by conflict for over three decades.
South Africa contributes troops to the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) and the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC).
Tragically, the loss of 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers during peacekeeping operations has highlighted the increasing danger of the conflict, with the strategic city of Goma now under the control of the M23 rebel group.
Ramaphosa stressed that South Africa’s stance remains clear: “As South Africa, we have steadfastly maintained that diplomacy is the most sustainable solution to this conflict.”
Alongside peacekeeping efforts, South Africa actively participates in various diplomatic initiatives such as the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the DRC, the Luanda Peace Process led by Angola, and the EAC-led Nairobi Process.
One of the key outcomes of the summit was a renewed call for an immediate ceasefire and cessation of hostilities.
This will allow critical humanitarian aid to reach civilians trapped in the conflict. The summit also directed the Chiefs of Defence Forces from EAC and SADC to meet within five days to develop a plan for securing Goma, reopening its airport, evacuating civilians, and repatriating the deceased.
The summit’s most significant development was the agreement to resume direct negotiations between all parties, including the M23 rebel group, under the frameworks of the Luanda and Nairobi processes.
Ramaphosa emphasised the importance of this inclusive approach, stating, “Unless all parties to the conflict are brought around the negotiating table, all diplomatic solutions will lack credibility and be unsustainable in the long term.”
The joint summit also reaffirmed the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the DRC, including a call for the withdrawal of uninvited foreign armed forces from the country. These steps are seen as confidence-building measures, which will eventually lead to the reduction of SAMIDRC troops and a path toward lasting peace.
Moreover, Ramaphosa reiterated South Africa’s solidarity with the Congolese people.
“South Africa stands in solidarity with the Congolese people and their aspiration to live in peace and security,” he said, reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to a political solution that prioritises the stability of the DRC and its neighbours.
