SADC consults Kagame on DRC situation

REGIONAL - Representatives of Foreign Affairs Ministers from three Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) countries yesterday met with President Paul Kagame seeking his advice on the current situation in Eastern DRC. The representatives included the Angola deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr George Chicoti, accompanied by Tanzania’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cyril Chami and Swaziland’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ku Nene. “We have been sent by Angolan President, Dos Santos José Eduardo, in his capacity as the chair of the Political, Defence and Security Organ of the SADC to inquire from President Kagame the possible ways of restoring peace in Eastern Congo,” said Chicoti who headed the delegation. The three representatives were in Rwanda to deliver a message of appreciation and also consult Kagame on restoring peace and security in the region. “Rwanda is playing a significant role in restoring peace and security in this region. President Dos Santos found it wise to consult his Rwandan counterpart on the possibilities to have a secure environment in our region,” said Chicoti. Speaking about the current situation in DRC, Chicoti said SADC is bothered by the existence of militia groups in Congo jungles. “We support the idea of disarming the militia and we recommend that all those involved should be dealt with,” Chicoti added. The three representatives came to Rwanda after Burundi and DRC and immediately proceeded to Uganda to meet top leaders and discuss about the current situation in DRC.Currently Angola holds the chairmanship of SADC, while Swaziland is preparing to enter and chair of the organ. Ends