South Africa is grieving the loss of 13 soldiers who died in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) while serving as part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and United Nations (UN) peacekeeping efforts. The troops were caught in escalating clashes involving the M23 rebel group and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) against the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) and peacekeepers from the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC).
President Cyril Ramaphosa extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, recognizing the soldiers’ dedication to restoring peace. He assured that the government is providing full support to the affected families and is in the process of repatriating the fallen heroes.
The violence has also claimed lives from other SAMIDRC-contributing nations, including Malawi and Tanzania, as well as members of the UN’s MONUSCO brigade. South Africa joins these nations in mourning their losses.
With tensions remaining high in Goma and Sake, Defence Minister Angie Motshekga and SANDF leadership are working to ensure that troops have the necessary resources and support for the critical mission.
President Ramaphosa dismissed speculation regarding the state of South African troops, urging citizens to stand behind the soldiers who are working to secure peace on the continent. He clarified that South Africa’s military presence in the DRC is not an act of war but a commitment to regional stability.
South Africa welcomed the recent United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution, which demands an end to hostilities, withdrawal of external forces, and renewed peace talks under the Nairobi Process. The country also reaffirmed its stance that the territorial integrity of the DRC must be respected, in line with the UN Charter.
As diplomatic efforts continue, South Africa calls on all parties involved to uphold existing peace agreements, including the Luanda Process, to bring an end to the conflict and pave the way for lasting peace and development in the region.
