The Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of the East African Community (EAC) was recently held to discuss the worrying situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The leaders welcomed the efforts undertaken by President Félix Tshisekedi to restore peace in the region, while condemning ceasefire violations by local armed groups. They expressed their concern and requested the EAC Regional Force to take action to address it.
Leaders also agreed to extend the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) for six months, to consolidate the gains made by the East African Regional Force. This decision is intended to facilitate the orderly withdrawal of armed groups from the region and to protect civilians.
In addition, the EAC Regional Force was tasked with maintaining areas liberated by M23 and other armed groups, overseeing their withdrawal from remaining occupied areas. The leaders also called on the DRC and South Sudan to engage in bilateral discussions to resolve the issue of negative forces on their common border.
These measures are important to ensure the stability and security of the eastern DRC region. The international community must support these efforts aimed at ending armed conflicts, protecting civilians and facilitating the return of internally displaced persons to areas liberated by armed groups.