Rwanda has escorted Southern African Development Community troops as they withdraw from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo to Tanzania. This step comes after SADC’s phased withdrawal decision, amidst ongoing conflict and tensions linked to rebel forces, particularly the M23.
On Tuesday, Rwanda facilitated the transit of Southern African troops through its territory to Tanzania as they withdrew from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Rwandan officials, including Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe, confirmed the movement, which marks a significant step as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) phases out its presence in the region.
The mission, known as SAMIDRC, was initiated last December to help the Congolese government combat rebel groups. However, its operations were contentious, aggravating tensions in an already volatile region. “The presence of SAMIDRC troops was always a complicating factor in the conflict, and today’s start of withdrawal marks a positive step in support of the ongoing peace process,” stated Nduhungirehe on social media platform X.
As part of this withdrawal, several hundred SAMIDRC troops had taken refuge in U.N. peacekeeping bases in response to worsening conditions following the fall of Goma to the Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. On Tuesday, a convoy featuring approximately 20 vehicles, escorted by Rwandan military and police, crossed from Goma into the Rwandan town of Gisenyi.
Witnesses observed the convoy carrying military equipment and soldiers from Tanzania and South Africa. They also noted that an ambulance with SAMIDRC markings was included in this movement. Some drivers confirmed that the vehicles were en route to Tanzania.
According to sources affiliated with the M23, half of the SAMIDRC troops stationed in Goma departed on this day, with the remainder expected to leave at a later point. The M23 has expanded its control, capturing eastern Congo’s largest cities amid a protracted conflict that has historical roots linked to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and ongoing struggles for control over Congo’s rich natural resources.
This conflict has had catastrophic consequences, resulting in thousands of deaths and displacing hundreds of thousands of individuals. Rwandan authorities deny accusations from the U.N. regarding their military backing of the M23 and assert that their forces’ actions are purely defensive against Congolese military forces and allied militias.
In a further development, Rwanda had previously called upon the African Union to refrain from supporting SAMIDRC, arguing that the force was cooperating with a Congolese government coalition tied to those responsible for the Rwandan genocide. Recent mediation attempts by Angola and Qatar have not yet resolved the ongoing strife, although both Congo and Rwanda have committed to drafting a peace agreement by May 2, following a pact signed in Washington last week.
In summary, Rwanda’s escort of Southern African troop withdrawals marks a critical juncture in the conflict within the Democratic Republic of Congo. The phased exit of SAMIDRC troops signifies potential progress in peace efforts, amidst a backdrop of ongoing violence and political tension. As mediation attempts continue, the situation remains a focal point for the region’s stability.
Original Source: www.marketscreener.com
