Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Africa Links 24
Published on 2024-04-03 14:23:20
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) recently faced criticism from Rwanda for its involvement in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), leading to tensions within the regional bloc. Rwanda accused SADC troops deployed in eastern DRC of not being a neutral force, sparking controversy and raising concerns about peacekeeping efforts in the region.
At a SADC Extraordinary Organ Troika Summit in Lusaka, Zambia, Elias Magosi, the Executive Secretary of SADC, addressed the issue and expressed disapproval of Rwanda’s remarks. Magosi reiterated SADC’s commitment to promoting peace and security in conflict-ridden areas such as the DRC and Mozambique. In the DRC, the army is engaged in a battle against M23 rebels, while Mozambique is fighting Islamic insurgents in the Cabo Delgado province.
Magosi emphasized the importance of avoiding negative external narratives that could undermine peacekeeping missions during the summit. He conveyed SADC’s disapproval of Rwanda’s communication to the United Nations and the African Union regarding support for SADC troops in the DRC. Despite Rwanda’s objections, SADC enjoys support from the African Union Commission and the UN Security Council for its peacekeeping efforts.
Rwanda’s foreign affairs minister, Vincent Biruta, sent a letter to the president of the UN Security Council, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, expressing concerns about supporting SADC troops in the DRC. The letter argued that backing the SADC mission could pose a threat to Rwanda’s security and potentially escalate tensions in the region. Rwanda urged the UN Security Council to refrain from providing logistical and operational support to SADC forces in the DRC.
Rwanda’s main grievance stems from the DRC’s alleged support of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a group seeking the removal of President Paul Kagame. Rwanda believes that the international community is overlooking the root cause of the conflict and focusing on the symptoms, such as the presence of rebel groups in the region.
The dispute between Rwanda and SADC highlights the complexities of peacekeeping missions in conflict zones and the competing interests of regional actors. As tensions continue to simmer, it is essential for all parties involved to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy to prevent further escalation of conflicts and preserve stability in the region.
In conclusion, the rift between Rwanda and SADC over peacekeeping efforts in the DRC underscores the challenges of maintaining neutrality in conflict zones. Both sides must work towards mutual understanding and cooperation to address the root causes of conflicts and promote sustainable peace in the region.Dialogue and diplomatic efforts are crucial in resolving disputes and fostering stability in war-torn areas like the DRC and Mozambique.
Read the original article on Gazette News
