East African Force Withdraws from DRC as Regional Dynamics Shift

The East African force (EAC-RF) withdrawal from the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) marks a significant shift in regional dynamics, as the renewal of their deployment was refused by Kinshasa due to perceived ineffectiveness. The departure of approximately 250 South Sudanese soldiers from Goma and the earlier exit of nearly 300 Kenyan soldiers illustrate the ongoing reconfiguration of security forces in the area.

In a solemn departure, South Sudanese soldiers clad in fatigues and armed with weapons took off from Goma airport, destined for Juba in the early hours of the morning. A subsequent rotation is scheduled for later in the day, signaling the gradual withdrawal of the EAC-RF from the region. This East African force, comprised of soldiers from Kenya, South Sudan, Uganda, and Burundi, will see the eventual departure of Ugandan and Burundian troops in the coming weeks, with officers set to leave last. The planned timeline for the withdrawal is expected to span a month, culminating on January 7th, 2024, with the transportation of equipment by road.

The deployment of EAC-RF soldiers to Goma in November 2022 was a response to the resurgence of the M23 rebellion in North Kivu, with the aim of reclaiming territories seized by the rebels. However, the Congolese government soon expressed dissatisfaction with the EAC troops, alleging their failure to disarm the rebels and instead accusing them of cohabiting with the insurgents.

Following an EAC summit on November 25th, it was announced that the DRC would not extend the mandate of the regional force beyond December 8, 2023. In response, Kinshasa is looking to the Southern African Community (SADC) to replace the departing EAC-RF, with expectations of their deployment commencing on December 10th.

The EAC-RF withdrawal unfolds amidst ongoing clashes between the M23 and the Congolese army, with support from so-called “patriotic” militiamen. Furthermore, there are calls for the “orderly” but “accelerated” departure of the United Nations mission, MONUSCO, from the DRC by January 2024, citing its perceived ineffectiveness.

As the EAC-RF exits the DRC, it represents a pivotal moment in the region’s security landscape, with implications extending far beyond the borders of the Congo. The evolving nature of security arrangements and the influx of new regional actors signify a transformative period for the DRC and its neighboring states.

This article was prepared by Hauwa M.