SA and DRC Deepen Ties to Tackle Security and Boost Economic Cooperation

During the meeting, Minister Lamola expressed heartfelt condolences to the Congolese people, acknowledging the dire security situation that continues to displace millions, especially women and children.

In a significant diplomatic engagement aimed at deepening bilateral relations and addressing regional instability, South Africa's Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, met with his Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) counterpart, Thérèse Kayiwamba Wagner, in Pretoria this week. The high-level political consultations were focused on strengthening cooperation, bolstering economic ties, and responding to the worsening humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC.

During the meeting, Minister Lamola expressed heartfelt condolences to the Congolese people, acknowledging the dire security situation that continues to displace millions, especially women and children.

“The security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is fragile and is cause for concern. Many lives have been lost and millions, particularly women and children, have been forced to flee their homes,” Lamola said on Thursday.

Security Crisis Takes Centre Stage

The eastern DRC has long been plagued by armed conflict, and the ongoing violence has led to mass displacement, human rights violations, and a deepening humanitarian crisis. Lamola noted that the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has held no fewer than three emergency sessions in recent months to discuss the crisis and coordinate international responses.

“Our regional and continental organisations have echoed global calls for a ceasefire, the cessation of hostilities, and the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid,” he said. “The people of the eastern DRC are yearning for peace and normalcy. We dare not fail them.”

South Africa reiterated its unwavering support for mediation efforts aimed at securing a sustainable resolution to the conflict. In a major show of commitment, former South African President Kgalema Motlanthe has been appointed to a mediation team tasked with advancing peace talks in the region.

“Former President Motlanthe brings vast political experience and a deep understanding of the dynamics of conflict resolution. We believe his presence will significantly strengthen the mediation process,” Lamola added.

Strengthening Economic Ties

The meeting also reviewed the state of bilateral relations between the two countries, particularly in light of the commitments made during the most recent session of the South Africa–DRC Bi-National Commission (BNC). Ministers Lamola and Wagner reaffirmed their intention to promote trade and investment as pillars of mutual development.

“We should examine progress in our joint efforts of promoting trade and investment between our countries—an area which is critical to the growth of our respective economies and the improvement of the lives and livelihoods of our people,” Lamola said.

South African companies have shown increased interest in investing in the DRC’s diverse economic sectors, from mining and infrastructure to energy and telecommunications. In a move aimed at catalyzing these investments, Lamola announced that South Africa’s development finance institutions are prepared to extend and expand their coverage in the DRC.

“Working together, I am confident that we will create the necessary conditions for these investments to be realised,” he noted.

Building a Stronger Strategic Partnership

Minister Wagner’s visit underscores the growing partnership between the two countries, with both sides expressing a commitment to stronger institutional ties and policy alignment.

“The visit by Minister Wagner is a testament to the commitment of both our nations to build a more robust and strategic partnership,” Lamola said.

He stressed that senior officials from both countries must now intensify efforts to follow through on outstanding tasks agreed upon during the BNC, with a comprehensive review of outcomes planned in the coming months ahead of the next session later this year.

The discussions were further enriched by the presence of the Ministers of Defence from both South Africa and the DRC, reflecting the multifaceted nature of cooperation required to address the challenges facing the region.

Regional Peace, Shared Prosperity

The consultations come at a time when regional cooperation is more critical than ever. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU) have emphasized the need for collective action to foster peace, stability, and development across the continent.

Lamola reiterated that South Africa’s foreign policy places high priority on peacebuilding and regional integration, and reaffirmed Pretoria’s readiness to support all initiatives that contribute to long-term stability and prosperity in the DRC.

As both nations prepare for the next phase of their strategic partnership, the meeting between Lamola and Wagner has laid a solid foundation for closer cooperation across political, security, and economic spheres—sending a strong signal that collaboration is essential for progress in the region.