Kinshasa Briefs SADC on FDLR Demilitarisation Protocol Under Washington Accords

Kinshasa, DRC, August 13, 2026 - Regional Integration Minister Floribert Anzuluni addressed the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Council of Ministers today, highlighting the recent signing of a demilitarisation, demobilisation, and cantonment protocol by the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR). This protocol, part of the Washington Accords, outlines the process for the FDLR's repatriation or relocation to a third country, with a monitoring committee established to oversee compliance involving regional and international partners. Anzuluni noted that the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has resumed its full participation in SADC after settling its contribution arrears, a significant step for the nation ahead of the upcoming 46th SADC summit.

In a prior briefing with interim SADC chair Cyril Ramaphosa, Anzuluni emphasized the importance of the protocol for regional stability. However, the Rwandan government has dismissed the agreement as a "non-event," raising concerns about the potential for continued tensions in the region. The DRC's commitment to the protocol reflects its ongoing efforts to address security challenges posed by armed groups, including the FDLR, which has been a longstanding issue in the eastern provinces.

The recent developments come on the heels of significant economic discussions involving the United States, particularly regarding the Lobito Corridor. On July 30, U.S. Commerce Deputy Mark Mitchell reaffirmed the Lobito Corridor as a flagship initiative under the U.S.-Africa economic partnership, which includes a $553 million loan from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) aimed at modernizing the Lobito railway. This railway is crucial for transporting DRC's mineral resources through Zambia to the Angolan port, enhancing regional trade and economic integration.