leaders-from-across-sadc-gather-in-harare-for-urgent-talks-on-eastern-drc-conflict _On the fast lane to 2030 by Maxwell Haitengeswinyika Teeezai_ *SADC Summit eyes peace deal in Eastern DRC* | Fri Jan 31, 2025 In an urgent call to address the escalating conflict in Eastern DRC — Democratic Republic of Congo, Zimbabwean President and SADC Chairperson HE Dr ED Mnangagwa opened an Extraordinary Summit today at the New Parliament Building in Harare. He welcomed Heads of State and Government from the SADC — Southern African Development Community bloc, expressing gratitude for their attendance on such short notice. Emphasizing the dire situation, President Mnangagwa noted that recent hostilities have resulted in the tragic deaths of peacekeepers, urging collective efforts to seek lasting solutions to restore peace in the Region. President Mnangagwa extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the ongoing conflict, highlighting the gravity of the humanitarian crisis affecting millions of internally displaced persons in Eastern DRC. He acknowledged the contributions of SADC Member States and stressed the need for continuous support for peacekeeping operations. The Region's commitment to dialogue and peace-building was reiterated, as he condemned attacks from aggressor forces and stressed the importance of a united response to ensure stability and security within the SADC. Concluding his remarks, the SADC Summit Chair called for frank and constructive discussions among Member States, aiming to create a concrete and actionable roadmap for peace. He reaffirmed the shared responsibility of SADC Nations in upholding regional security and invited delegates to engage in productive deliberations throughout the Summit. His final note expressed optimism for fruitful discussions and a firm commitment towards fostering peace in the Eastern DRC, officially declaring the Summit open. #sadc #eastdrc #peacetalks #conflictresolution #regionalsecurity