SA TROOPS COMING HOME
SANDF begin phased withdrawal from DRC after truce
WITHDRAWAL: SANDF troops have now safely returned home, marking the end of a critical mission that sought to stabilise one of Africa’s most volatile regions.
Image: SANDF/Facebook
Minister of Defence Angie Motshekga has begun the phased withdrawal of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
She explained that the withdrawal was a structured process, designed to ensure the safe return of both troops and equipment was not compromised.
The soldiers were deployed in the DRC in December 2023 as part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and UN peacekeeping deployments.
Tragically, 14 SANDF members have been killed and several injured during intense combat with the M23 rebel group near Goma.
Motshekga praised the “brave men and women of the SANDF” for serving with honour, pride, professionalism, and commitment under extremely challenging circumstances.
She says: “I want to say to them your contribution has helped to lay the groundwork for peace in the region.
“And to the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice, your loss is shared by a very grateful nation with full appreciation.
“Their memory will forever be etched in the history of our commitment to peace on the African continent.
“South Africa remains committed to a peaceful, stable and a prosperous DRC.
“Our diplomatic deployments and humanitarian engagements will continue. As we transit out of the active combat deployment, we reinforce our commitment to African-led solutions and the values of the African Union agenda 2063.”
SANDF Chief General Rudzani Maphwanywa said the withdrawal was a result of political efforts and a signed agreement between the DRC and M23 to cease hostilities, aimed at achieving peace and stability in the eastern DRC.
He said the troops will proceed to the assembly area in Chato in Tanzania, from where they will return to their respective countries. Equipment will be transported to South Africa by sea, while personnel will travel by air.
The withdrawal process began on 29 April, with an advanced team of 57 members and 13 trucks already currently at the assembly area, preparing for the rest of the soldiers to follow.
He declined to share further details, citing security concerns.