Southern African leaders have announced a phased withdrawal of troops from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where they had been assisting the Congolese army in fighting the M23 rebels.

The decision, made during a virtual Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit, comes after significant losses, including the deaths of at least 19 soldiers from South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania. 

The M23, backed by Rwanda, has gained significant ground in recent months, capturing major cities such as Goma and Bukavu.

Despite concerns over escalating violence, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that “the peace as it is now is holding,” though reports indicate continued rebel advances. 

Political analysts describe the withdrawal as a setback for both SADC and the DRC government.

South African expert Sandile Swanda called the situation “embarrassing,” stating the military and political unpreparedness of SADC nations for full-scale conflict.

Meanwhile, Stephanie Wolters of the South African Institute of International Affairs noted that SADC’s withdrawal weakens the position of Kinshasa which is the capital and largest city of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, shifting the bloc from an ally to a neutral stance. 

While SADC pledges continued diplomatic efforts, past peace initiatives have failed.

However, Angola has announced it will host peace talks between the DRC and M23 rebels in Luanda next week, a move the rebels have welcomed, though Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi has previously refused direct negotiations with them.