After a year-long deployment to tackle rebel violence in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the East African regional force has completed its exit from the country.
Comprising troops from Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, and South Sudan, the force commenced its withdrawal earlier this month following the DRC government’s decision not to extend its mandate, expressing concerns about its efficacy.
In a statement to The East African newspaper on Thursday, Maj-Gen Alphaxard Kiugu, the force’s Commander, acknowledged the accomplishment of their mission despite facing what he described as “negative propaganda.”
However, he cautioned about the potential risk of armed groups, notably the M23 rebel faction, exploiting the vacuum created by their departure.
Notably, soldiers from the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) bloc are poised to take over responsibilities relinquished by the departing East African force.
The United Nations Security Council, on Tuesday, authorized the phased withdrawal of the UN peacekeeping force Monusco, slated to commence this month.
This transition marks a significant shift in security responsibilities in the region, with Sadc forces preparing to assume their role following the departure of the East African contingent.
This development follows the conclusion of the East African force’s tenure in the DRC, signaling a change in the regional security landscape and raising questions about the potential impact on stability in the area previously under their oversight.