The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has decided to deploy its troops to stabilize the eastern area of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) where armed groups, such as the Rwandan-backed M23 rebellion, are source of growing insecurity. This decision was taken after the regional EAC force was unable to make significant progress on the ground. The objective of this SADC deployment is to work actively for the return of peace to this part of the country.
In concrete terms, SADC member countries have approved this deployment and a force will soon be sent there. The mandate of this force will be offensive and the Troop Contributing Countries (TCC) of the Force Intervention Brigade (FIB) Troop Contributing Countries are invited to support this action. This Brigade formed on the recommendation of the SADC to fight the M23 in its time has shown its effectiveness and the SADC wishes to perpetuate its achievements.
The DRC government will also have to put in place the necessary conditions and measures to ensure effective coordination. Congolese authorities have already clarified that the deployment of the SADC standby force should not be confused with the SADC troops that are part of the FIB.
Concerns remain about the consequences of this intervention, particularly on civilian populations who could be collateral victims of military operations. Among the challenges facing the Congolese authorities, it will be necessary to ensure that the armed groups in this region are all eradicated so that peace can be established on a lasting basis.