** Extraordinary spouse EAC-SADC: Towards a resolution of crises in the DRC? **
On February 7, 2025, an extraordinary joint summit of the Communities of East Africa (EAC) and the Development Community of Southern Africa (SADC) opened in Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania, in A context of persistent tensions in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This crucial meeting comes when the security situation in Goma and its surroundings becomes more and more alarming due to the occupation by the rebel M23 movement, supported by Rwanda, of a large part of the Congolese territory.
The presence of Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, accompanied by his spokesperson Tina Salama, testifies to the government’s determination to make the DRC concerns heard in the face of what he describes as external aggression. In this historical period, it is interesting to explore not only immediate political issues, but also long -term ramifications of a resolution (or failure) of this crisis on the regional future.
** Geopolitical and humanitarian repercussions: a region at the crossroads **
Beyond the front lines, this summit highlights the urgency of a collective response to the security crisis which, if it is neglected, could cause persistent instability throughout the region of the Great Lakes. The military intervention of Rwanda in the DRC, a practice dates back decades, raises concerns not only on Congolese sovereignty, but also on the dramatic humanitarian consequences which arise from this insecurity.
Statistics speak for themselves: according to the latest United Nations reports, nearly 5.5 million people are currently moved within the DRC, a significant proportion of which lies in the areas affected by clashes. The case of Goma, crucial not only for its economic role as a transit point, but also for its access to humanitarian aid, is emblematic of the challenges at stake. The humanitarian situation is so critical that the reopening of the ‘Goma airport, required by President Tshisekedi, is not only a question of mobility, but of survival.
** A plural approach: the challenges of regional integration **
The EAC-SADC summit offers a platform where member countries could potentially exceed their historic rivalries and work together for lasting solutions. However, political realism requires an honest assessment of existing dynamics. The composite tensions between Rwanda and the DRC are only a facet of a complex table which includes often hostile relations between African states. Economic entanglement, ethnic rivalries, and the role of external actors complicate any mediation effort.
This crisis also exposes gaps in the capacity of EAC and SADC to respond effectively to major problems. The challenges of coordination between regional institutions, which, although evolved, still seem ineffective in the face of urgent issues, cannot be underestimated. In this sense, an integrated approach connecting security, economic development and human rights could be the way to follow.
** The commitment of the AU and international actors: an imperative necessity **
The African Union, while supporting peace efforts, has a significant role to play in facilitating inter-regional dialogues. The commitment of the United Nations, already present in the field thanks to the mission of the United Nations for stabilization in the Democratic Republic of Congo (Monusco), requires being intensified. Supporting these efforts by economic measures, in particular through infrastructure investments, could reduce certain long -term local tensions.
It should be noted that armed conflicts often persist in parallel with economic aspirations. By offering viable alternatives and development opportunities in regions in crisis, it becomes possible to structure better community resilience to instability. A balance between political power and economic power, mixing humanitarian assistance and long -term strategic planning, presents itself as the ideal model to consider.
** Conclusion: the Dar-Es-Salaam summit as a springboard? **
Expectations around the top of Dar-Es-Salaam could not be higher. The DRC, under the direction of Félix Tshisekedi, seeks to highlight the crucial issues of regional instability and the rights of its sovereignty. This moment illustrates a unique opportunity for the EAC and SADC to re-examine not only their role as bastions of preserving peace, but also to act beyond the individual interests of the Member States to promote collective solutions.
At a time when Africa is faced with global challenges, it is imperative that African countries unite to resolve existential crises such as that which shakes the east of the DRC. Tomorrow’s day could well not only redefine the course of Congolese history, but also that of regional cooperation in Africa, thus laying the milestones of a future where peace will be a tangible reality rather than an abstract concept.