The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has convened an emergency virtual summit of its Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, chaired by Malawi’s Vice-President Enoch Kamzingeni Chihana, representing President Arthur Peter Mutharika. The meeting focused on the deteriorating security and political situation in the region, particularly in Madagascar and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

During the summit, SADC reaffirmed its commitment to “safeguarding peace, consolidating democracy, and promoting stability and regional integration.” Regional leaders emphasized the need to strengthen African crisis prevention and resolution mechanisms to preserve collective security.

Deepening concerns over eastern DRC instability

SADC expressed grave concern over the worsening security situation in eastern DRC, stating that “instability threatens not only national peace but also regional integration and cooperation efforts.” Participants called on all parties involved in the conflict to respect commitments made under the Doha and Washington agreements, particularly ceasefire provisions.

Critical call for compliance with peace frameworks

The summit highlighted the resurgence of the Ebola epidemic in eastern DRC and reiterated solidarity with the Congolese people. It underscored that instability in the region poses a direct threat to national peace and regional cohesion. Leaders urged all stakeholders to strictly adhere to the Doha and Washington accords, emphasizing that African-led peace processes, supported by international efforts, remain vital for achieving lasting stability, resilience, and enduring peace in the region.

Next steps and regional engagement

To bolster its involvement in resolving the crisis, the SADC Troika formulated key recommendations that will be presented for consideration at the upcoming 46th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government. Scheduled for August 16–17, 2026, in Durban, South Africa, this summit will mark the beginning of South Africa’s 12-month presidency of the regional bloc. South Africa currently holds the interim presidency following the political crisis in Madagascar that led to the removal of former President Andry Rajoelina in October 2025.

Ongoing challenges despite diplomatic efforts

This SADC meeting follows multiple diplomatic initiatives, including the Washington and Doha agreements, aimed at establishing a durable ceasefire and reviving dialogue among key stakeholders in the longstanding conflict gripping eastern DRC. However, these efforts have yet to yield tangible results on the ground, where fighting continues between rebel factions and government forces.

Calls for compliance with peace commitments persist at national, regional, and international levels, yet these appeals have so far yielded little change. Bridging the gap between diplomatic progress and ground realities remains a critical challenge, as conflicting interpretations of the accords by different parties continue to undermine their implementation.