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Over 250 SANDF soldiers deployed to DRC are returning to SA

Zuko Komisa

Over 250 SANDF soldiers deployed to DRC are returning to SA
Image | SANDF

South African military personnel deployed to the conflict-stricken eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) commenced their withdrawal on Thursday, marking the beginning of the end for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) regional mission.

The first contingent of South African soldiers is anticipated to arrive back home today at a military base in Bloemfontein.

The decision to conclude the military mission in the mineral-rich eastern DRC was announced by SADC in March, following a grim toll of 17 soldiers lost amidst escalating clashes between Congolese government forces and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group.

According to a SADC statement, the withdrawal is being executed in phases. The initial phase, which began in April, focused on the removal of equipment and logistical assets.

The second phase, which commenced on Thursday, involves “the repatriation of mission personnel along with their personal belongings, and the remaining operational equipment.”

The SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), comprising troops from Malawi, Tanzania, and South Africa, was deployed in December 2023 with the objective of supporting the DRC government, also a SADC member, in its efforts to restore peace and stability to the volatile region.

The returning SAMIDRC troops, previously stationed in Goma and Sake, will undergo a staggered repatriation process.

“They will be transported to the United Republic of Tanzania where the Tanzanian contingent will continue to Dar es Salaam,” the SADC statement detailed.

“South African and Malawian contingents will be airlifted to their respective countries.”

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Written by: Zuko



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