The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Extraordinary Organ Troika Summit was convened to address pressing regional concerns, with a primary focus on promoting and reestablishing stability within the region. The summit was officially inaugurated by President Hakainde Hichilema, who also holds the position of Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defense, and Security.
President Hichilema expressed his deep apprehension about the deteriorating human rights situation in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). He emphasized the interconnected nature of the SADC member countries, highlighting that conflicts in one nation have far-reaching consequences across the region.
Hichilema underscored the severe challenges posed by insurgencies from armed groups in the DRC and called for comprehensive solutions to address the ongoing conflict. He also recognized that regional instability could jeopardize the prospects for peaceful elections.
SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi echoed the call for collective efforts to assist the DRC in finding a lasting resolution to the ongoing unrest. The summit provided a platform for SADC leaders to devise strategies and initiatives aimed at restoring peace and security in the region.
In attendance at the summit were Tanzanian President Samia Hassan, the Incoming Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defense, and Security Cooperation, as well as Namibian Vice President Nangolo Mbumba.
Subsequent to the summit, President Hichilema, accompanied by Zambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Stanley Kakubo, and Minister of Defense, Ambrose Lufuma, returned to Zambia.
