SADC and AFC/M23 talks agree on troop withdrawal, airport reopening
AFC/M23 will also coordinate the freedom of movement for the withdrawing troops according to the agreed principles.
Leaders from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/Mouvement du 23 Mars (AFC/M23) reached vital agreements on Friday aimed at ending hostilities and paving the way for peace in the region.
In a joint communique, both sides committed to a ceasefire and the immediate withdrawal of SAMIDRC troops, ensuring that these forces remove their weapons and equipment while leaving behind those belonging to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC).
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The AFC/M23 will also coordinate the freedom of movement for the withdrawing troops according to the agreed principles.
Also, a joint technical team will assess the readiness of Goma International Airport, with SADC pledging to assist in its repair so that it can reopen and support the smooth withdrawal process.
Both sides expressed gratitude to the SADC and the AFC/M23 leadership for the efforts put in order to make the engagement possible towards a peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict.
Last week, a joint meeting of the East African Community (EAC) and SADC ministers called for Goma and Kavumu airports to reopen within 30 days.
According to their joint communique, reopening the two airports in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces will facilitate the withdrawal of SADC troops (SAMIDRC), allow freedom of movement for humanitarian agencies, and ensure uninterrupted evacuation from conflict zones.
The ministers noted that while the UN mission MONUSCO and SAMIDRC troops are on the ground, they currently have no freedom of movement or action.
A follow-up meeting will be scheduled to monitor the progress of the commitments made today, March 28, 2025 and ensure that all agreements are implemented.
Attendees at the engagement included General Rudzani Maphwanya, Chief of the South African National Defence Force; Lieutenant General Geoffrey C. Zyeele, Zambia Army Commander; Major General Saiford Kalisha, representative of Malawi’s Chief of Defence Force; Major General Ibrahim Michael Mhona, representative of Tanzania; Professor Kula I.
Also those who attended include Theletsane, Director of Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Affairs, SADC; Major General Sultani Makenga, Military Coordinator of AFC/M23 and Chief of Defence Forces of ARC; Brigadier General Bernard Byamungu, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces of ARC; and Bahati Musanga Erasto, Governor of North Kivu Province.
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