South African Soldiers to Be Fully Withdrawn from Conflict Zone in Eastern DRC

More than 2,000 South African soldiers deployed as peacekeepers in the volatile North Kivu region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are set to return home by the end of June, according to the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). The military confirmed that the complete withdrawal of personnel from the region is currently underway, with several flights scheduled over the next few weeks.

The decision comes as part of the winding down of South Africa’s involvement in a long-standing peacekeeping mission in eastern DRC, an area gripped by decades of armed conflict and humanitarian crises. The SANDF’s presence in the region formed part of a broader Southern African Development Community (SADC) initiative aimed at restoring peace and stability in North Kivu, which has been plagued by militant violence, mass displacement, and ongoing security challenges.

The first batch of 249 South African soldiers arrived back in the country on Friday, marking the beginning of a phased withdrawal that is expected to be completed by the end of June. The return operation includes a total of nine scheduled military flights, each tasked with transporting troops and equipment back to South Africa.

SANDF spokesperson Prince Tshabalala confirmed the structured timeline of the operation during a media briefing on Saturday.

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“As we already indicated, there will be several trips—nine in total—which will ensure that all the troops are safely brought back home. We are expecting more of these flights to arrive in the coming days,” said Tshabalala.

He emphasized the importance of a carefully coordinated withdrawal to ensure the safety and well-being of the returning personnel, as well as the successful conclusion of the mission’s logistical operations.

Upon arrival in South Africa, all returning soldiers will be subjected to a four-day demobilisation process, which includes physical and psychological evaluations, reintegration briefings, and post-deployment support. The SANDF has said that this process is critical to ensuring a smooth transition for the troops as they re-enter civilian life or return to their military units for domestic duties.

“These soldiers have spent months in a conflict environment. The demobilisation process helps them process that experience, reconnect with their families, and re-adapt to life outside the high-stress conditions of deployment,” said Tshabalala.

In recent years, the SANDF has prioritised reintegration programs for deployed personnel, recognizing the long-term psychological toll that international peacekeeping missions can have on soldiers.

South Africa has maintained a military presence in the DRC for over two decades, with soldiers playing a key role in regional peacekeeping and stabilisation efforts. The SANDF operated under the United Nations and SADC mandates, supporting the Congolese government and regional allies in combating rebel groups, protecting civilians, and assisting with humanitarian operations.

However, escalating challenges on the ground, limited resources, and shifting foreign policy priorities have led to calls for a re-evaluation of South Africa’s role in external missions.

Defence analysts have suggested that the full withdrawal from North Kivu may signal a broader strategic shift by Pretoria, as the country grapples with increasing domestic security pressures and economic constraints.

The government has acknowledged the bravery and commitment of the SANDF soldiers deployed in the DRC, many of whom served under life-threatening conditions.

“Our soldiers carried the flag of South Africa high. They worked under extreme pressure, helping to protect civilians and bring hope to communities devastated by war,” said a statement from the Department of Defence.

Families of the returning troops have expressed both relief and pride, with many waiting eagerly at military bases to welcome their loved ones home after months of separation.

With the imminent return of the soldiers from the DRC, the SANDF is expected to refocus on domestic responsibilities, including border security, disaster relief, and public safety operations. The withdrawal comes at a time when South Africa is facing its own challenges, including high crime rates, service delivery protests, and the ongoing need for disaster management amid climate-related crises.

While the chapter in North Kivu may be closing, military officials say the country remains committed to peace and security efforts on the continent, albeit in more strategic and sustainable ways.

Source- EWN