President Ramaphosa sends his condolences to families of SANDF soldiers killed in DRC

President Cyril Ramaphosa has moved to dispel concerns about the well-being of South African troops deployed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Amid growing criticism from political parties and reports of inadequate resources, the president reassured the public that all necessary support was being provided to the soldiers.

Condolences to Families of Fallen Soldiers

Speaking in the wake of 13 South African soldiers losing their lives in the ongoing conflict, Ramaphosa extended his condolences to the families of the fallen troops. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by the soldiers as part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) peacekeeping mission, emphasizing that efforts to repatriate their remains were already underway.

However, the deaths of the soldiers have sparked a national debate about whether South African troops should remain in the DRC, particularly given the resource-depleted state of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).

Criticism from Political Parties

This week, several political parties voiced strong opposition to the continued deployment of South African troops in the DRC, questioning whether the mission was justified. Critics argue that sending soldiers into a dangerous warzone without sufficient resources amounts to sending them to their deaths.

There have also been reports of poor conditions for SANDF troops, including claims that they lack proper supplies, food, and medical care while stationed in the conflict-ridden eastern city of Goma. These concerns have fueled calls for the immediate withdrawal of South African forces.

Ramaphosa Rejects Speculation About Poor Conditions

In response, President Ramaphosa rejected speculation that the South African military was struggling to support its soldiers.

“I am deeply concerned about the misinformation and speculation surrounding the conditions of our troops. Our soldiers are well-equipped and receiving the necessary support to carry out their mission,” Ramaphosa said.

He assured South Africans that Defence Minister Angie Motshekga, SANDF Chief Rudzani Maphwanya, and Mission Force Commander Monwabisi Dyakopu were all closely monitoring the situation.

Ramaphosa insisted that South African troops were adequately supplied, contradicting reports that they were underfunded and struggling to access basic necessities.

South African Troops Honored as Heroes

The president praised the South African troops, calling them heroes who were making brave sacrifices to bring peace to Africa.

“Our soldiers have shown nothing but gallantry and heroism in their efforts to bring stability to the continent. We must stand behind them, support them, and recognize their immense contribution,” he said.

Ramaphosa emphasized that South Africa was not acting alone in the mission, pointing out that Malawi and Tanzania had also suffered losses in the fight against the M23 rebel group and the Rwanda Defence Force.

Fellow South Africans,

Following the recent intensification of fighting in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Africa has lost 13 brave soldiers who were dedicated to their mission and committed to peace. The fighting is the result of an escalation by the rebel…

— Cyril Ramaphosa (@CyrilRamaphosa) January 29, 2025

South Africa’s Role in the DRC Conflict

The president also clarified South Africa’s position in the conflict, stating that the deployment of SANDF troops in the DRC was not a declaration of war against any nation.

“South Africa’s presence in the DRC is part of a coordinated effort under SADC and the United Nations (UN). Our mission is peacekeeping, not aggression,” he explained.

Ramaphosa reiterated South Africa’s support for the UN Security Council’s stance that all foreign forces should leave the DRC and allow peace talks to resume.

The Future of South Africa’s Involvement in the DRC

Despite the mounting criticism, South Africa’s involvement in the DRC remains uncertain. With public pressure growing and concerns about military funding and troop welfare, the government will have to reassess its approach to the mission.

For now, Ramaphosa has made it clear that South African troops will continue their peacekeeping efforts, while government officials work to ensure their safety and adequate support.