SANDF withdrawal from DRC at critical phase, says Maphwanya

The Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), Rudzani Maphwanya, says the ongoing withdrawal of troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is at a critical stage.

The phased withdrawal began on 29 April, following discussions between the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC).

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The process follows a tragic loss of 14 SANDF members during clashes between the DRC military and the M23 rebel group in eastern DRC.

The troops’ withdrawal is expected to be completed by the end of May.

While military personnel will be flown home, the equipment will need to be transported by sea.

SANDF chief pays tribute to fallen soldiers

Delivering the keynote address during the United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers International Day commemoration in Bloemfontein on Thursday, Maphwanya reflected on the cost of peacekeeping missions.

The SANDF chief highlighted that achieving peace comes at a high price, with casualties and setbacks.

He noted that more than 4 000 peacekeepers have died while serving under the UN flag.

“Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. Peacekeepers play a vital role in conflict zones, maintaining ceasefires, protecting vulnerable populations, and supporting the rebuilding of societies ravaged by war,” he said.

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Maphwanya honoured the 14 SANDF soldiers who lost their lives in the DRC, saying their “sacrifice was not in vain”.

“Their toil, their blood, is the tree we see today, a tree bearing the nascent fruits of peace and stability in that nation.

“However, we are not under any illusion that our work is complete. We recognise that we are still a long way from achieving our ultimate goal of lasting peace and stability.”

He reaffirmed the SANDF’s commitment to peacekeeping efforts, stating that South Africa remains ready to support future missions in the DRC.

“SADC, along with other international entities, will continue to seek peaceful resolutions in the Central African nation.”

SANDF withdrawal from DRC progressing

Maphwanya also made it clear that the SANDF’s departure should not be seen as abandoning the people of the DRC.

“As directed by our government, we remain prepared to support future peacekeeping missions in the DRC and elsewhere, whenever and wherever our expertise and dedication are required.”

He further highlighted the logistical complexity of the withdrawal process.

“We are working around the clock with the SADC secretariat to ensure that we get all our people and equipment back from the eastern DRC. We are at a critical stage of the withdrawal of the contingent’s equipment.”

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In addition, Maphwanya reiterated that the SANDF’s objective remains to foster peace and stability through mediation and political engagement.

“War and peace are not opposites, but rather two sides of the same coin. While war is a brutal and destructive force, the pursuit of peace is a fundamental human desire that unites us all.”

At least 2 500 SANDF troops were deployed in December 2023 as part of the SAMIDRC mission, replacing the UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (Monusco) in eastern parts of the country.

Watch the commemoration event below: