Zambia and Tanzania on Friday called for an immediate ceasefire and an end to hostilities in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, urging all parties involved to engage in dialogue for a peaceful resolution. The two nations expressed grave concern over the escalating security situation in the region and emphasized the importance of dialogue among all stakeholders to address the ongoing conflict.
This call was made in a joint communique issued at the conclusion of the third session of the Zambia-Tanzania Joint Permanent Commission (JPC), which was held in Zambia’s tourist city of Livingstone. The commission reiterated its support for the efforts of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Troika on politics, defense, and security cooperation, with Tanzania as the current chair and Zambia as the outgoing chair.
The statement also commended the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) for hosting their first-ever joint summit of heads of state and government in February to address the peace and stability issues in Congo.
As neighboring countries, Zambia and Tanzania underscored the urgency of resolving the conflict to prevent a potential refugee crisis and to maintain regional peace and security, which are vital for trade and integration in the region. They emphasized that peace in the eastern DRC is crucial for regional stability.
Since December, the M23 rebel group has expanded its territorial control in eastern Congo, taking over provincial capitals such as Goma and Bukavu. According to Congo’s Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka, more than 7,000 people have died as a result of the fighting this year alone, a tragedy that further emphasizes the need for immediate action.
Both Zambia and Tanzania have stressed that finding an amicable solution through dialogue and a ceasefire will be key to restoring peace and stability in the region.