Rwanda Assists in Coordinated Withdrawal of SADC Troops from Eastern DR Congo
Rwanda is set to facilitate the withdrawal of SADC/SAMIDRC forces from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, according to a senior official source. According to information received by Africa Security Analysis (ASA), a formal request has been submitted to Kigali to allow the troops exit through Rwanda, with their final staging point set for Chato, Tanzania, ahead of their departure by air.
Due to the large volume of military hardware involved, some equipment may be airlifted directly from Kigali. Rwanda is reportedly working to streamline the process and minimize the risks and delays of transporting heavy assets overland. In these cases, comprehensive inspections will be conducted to ensure a secure and orderly transfer.
Citing Rwanda’s New Times, “this decision marks a significant milestone in Africa’s efforts to promote stability and lasting peace in the Great Lakes region.
The move follows rising tensions between the regional force and AFC/M23 rebels, who recently demanded the withdrawal of SADC troops after accusing SAMIDRC of siding with pro-Kinshasa militias in clashes near Goma.
Tensions escalated last Friday when SAMIDRC units reportedly deployed a surveillance drone over Mubambiro. In response, AFC/M23 withdrew their previous consent for SADC forces to exit via Goma airport—an option initially approved once renovations were completed.
SAMIDRC personnel are expected to leave the region along with their equipment, under conditions described as “respectful and discreet.” The withdrawal may take place away from media attention, according to Africa Security Analysis.
For AFC/M23, SAMIDRC’s alleged involvement in the recent confrontations may have accelerated the troop pullout—an outcome the group has openly welcomed.
This development comes nearly three months after AFC/M23 seized control of the city of Goma.
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A Fragile Ceasefire in Eastern DRC
Amid ongoing violence in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), two nearly identical statements released on April 23, 2025, announced an immediate ceasefire. One was signed in Goma by a member of the rebel group AFC/M23—someone not even officially part of the delegation—and the other was issued by the Congolese government in Kinshasa.
Ituri Under Surveillance
Rising Security Concerns The political fragmentation in eastern DRC continues to threaten the fragile stability of Ituri. The failure of the Doha process and the breakdown of the republican pact could pave the way for a new wave of unrest in the region. On April 22, 2025, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, met with leaders of the Lendu militia CODECO (Cooperative for the Development of the Congo) in Entebbe. Officially, the meeting was convened to address CODECO’s attack on Ugandan military positions in Ituri, a confrontation that adds to past clashes between the group and the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). Key Figures and Discussions The CODECO delegation, led by Dunji Kulukpa Etienne (Vice President of the Lendu community), included political and militant representatives. On the Ugandan side, top-ranking officials participated: • General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, CDF • Lieutenant General Kayanja Muhanga, Land Forces Commander • Major General Felix Busizoori, Commander of the 4th Infantry Division • Brigadier General Oscar Munanura, Deputy Assistant Chief of Intelligence and Security Earlier in the week, CODECO leaders had already engaged with Ugandan military commanders. During the Entebbe meeting, Mr. Dunji expressed gratitude for Uganda’s reception and apologized for the Fataki clashes between CODECO and the UPDF. He claimed the militia had been influenced by external forces and emphasized that the Lendu, Balega, and Bahema communities do not view Uganda as an adversary. Dunji also highlighted Ituri’s worsening humanitarian crisis, attributing it to political divisions, while praising Uganda’s contributions in healthcare, refugee assistance, and economic aid. Uganda’s Expanding Influence in Ituri General Kainerugaba reaffirmed Uganda’s historical presence in North Kivu and Ituri, citing counter-insurgency operations dating back to the early 2000s. He urged CODECO leaders to collaborate with the UPDF in pursuit of a lasting peace. As a demonstration of goodwill, Ugandan forces provided free medical care to wounded CODECO fighters. Strategic Implications: A Larger Agenda? While Uganda frames this meeting as a step toward reconciliation, analysts at African Security Analysis suggest a deeper motive. They argue that the gathering was part of a broader effort to integrate CODECO into the militant coalition led by Thomas Lubanga, potentially setting the stage for coordinated offensives in Ituri, particularly targeting Bunia. If confirmed, this would signal a significant shift in the security landscape, with Uganda deepening its influence in Ituri under the guise of conflict resolution. The region remains under scrutiny as stakeholders assess the evolving dynamics.
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