Troops from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have dismissed claims that they are conducting joint operations with rebel groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The denial follows accusations from M23 rebels and their allies that SADC forces, deployed under the SAMIDRC mission, have been working alongside Congolese troops and militias in the eastern city of Goma.
The SADC released a statement rejecting the accusations as false and misleading. The bloc emphasized that its mission in the DRC has not taken part in any coordinated military actions with the Congolese army (FARDC), the FDLR rebel group, or the pro-government Wazalendo militia, as alleged by the M23 and the Congo River Alliance (AFC).
Instead, the regional body stated that its troops are in the process of a structured and coordinated withdrawal from Congo. This step follows a decision by the SADC Summit to officially end the mission’s mandate in the country.
The statement urged all involved parties to avoid spreading misinformation and instead focus on restoring peace in the conflict-ridden region. The SADC also confirmed its dedication to dialogue and peaceful solutions in line with earlier agreements made with M23 leaders.
Eastern Congo has faced growing instability since the beginning of the year, as M23 rebels launched renewed offensives, capturing key areas in North and South Kivu provinces. The conflict has triggered a major humanitarian crisis, with thousands displaced.
Tensions remain high, with Congo accusing Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels. Kigali has repeatedly denied involvement. Efforts to de-escalate the situation are ongoing, with Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame recently agreeing to a ceasefire during peace talks in Doha, Qatar.