At a time when the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to suffer from clashes between M23 rebels and pro-government troops, the arrival of the first SADC (Southern African Development Community) troops was much hoped for by local populations. However, despite the landing of South African soldiers in Goma at the end of December, these troops are not yet deployed on the ground, which is causing impatience among residents.
The situation in the Masisi region is particularly worrying, with repeated abuses committed by armed groups, forcing schools to transform into camps for displaced people. Local populations are counting on the intervention of the SADC to put an end to this violence and protect civilians. However, past experience with other foreign military forces, such as the EAC (Eastern African Coalition), has not brought the expected results. The Congolese population therefore hopes that the SADC will act differently and actively engage alongside the Congolese army to repel the enemy and ensure the security of the country.
It is important to note that the expectations of the population do not come down to simple observation of the situation, but require real action to eliminate the threat. For the inhabitants of the DRC, it is crucial that SADC positions itself on the front lines and actively fights armed groups, in order to put an end to their aggression and protect the Congolese population. This is not a simple “armed tourism”, but a decisive and committed intervention which will restore peace and security to the region.
In conclusion, the arrival of SADC troops in the DRC is eagerly awaited by the Congolese population, who hope that they will bring tangible change in the fight against armed groups. More than a simple observation force, the population wants to see the SADC actively engaged on the ground, in order to put an end to the violence and finally allow stability and development in the east of the DRC.