The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) reported on Monday that the evacuation of injured South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is set to begin this week. The decision follows intense clashes between M23 rebels and the Congolese military. These battles have worsened the conflict in the area, leading to the deaths of 14 SANDF personnel. Their bodies were flown back to South Africa on February 12, 2025. However, evacuating the wounded has been challenging.
Authorities have not revealed the exact number of soldiers needing evacuation. Earlier reports suggested that 190 were injured, but officials denied this. The delays are partly due to the M23 rebels’ demand to use a route through Rwanda. South Africa opposes this, fearing “humiliation” by Rwandan authorities. The United Nations will manage the evacuation from Goma. The exact number of soldiers to be moved is still unclear.
SANDF troops are in the DRC as part of peacekeeping missions under the United Nations and the Southern African Development Community. Recent events have exposed issues affecting the welfare of South African soldiers. Critics say budget cuts have made it harder for the SANDF to maintain weapons and equipment.
Jeff Dubazana, Chief Negotiator of the South African National Defence Union, linked these issues to reduced funding. “For nearly two decades, the SANDF has faced budget cuts from parliament. We have weapons, but funding limits maintenance and buying spare parts,” he said.
President Cyril Ramaphosa disagreed with this view. He insisted that SANDF leaders are providing the necessary equipment and support. He also urged the public to back the troops. “We are concerned about rumors about our troops’ conditions. All South Africans should support our brave men and women working to bring peace to our continent,” Ramaphosa stated.
The situation in eastern DRC remains tense. Reports suggest Rwanda is backing the M23 rebels, adding to regional tensions. South Africa has warned Rwanda that further attacks on its peacekeepers would be seen as a “declaration of war.” This highlights the complex political situation in the Great Lakes region.
The conflict has worsened the humanitarian crisis. Thousands have died, and hundreds of thousands have been displaced. The United Nations estimates that about 7,000 people have been killed since the fighting escalated. Around 450,000 people are now displaced, and almost 90 camps have been destroyed. International efforts to restore stability and address the humanitarian crisis continue.