South Africa has lost 13 soldiers in the recent escalation of fighting in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a tragic event following intensified attacks by the M23 rebel group and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) militia. The fighting, which involved clashes with the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) and peacekeepers from the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), has left the region in turmoil.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, in a statement issued on January 29, 2025, expressed deep condolences on behalf of the government and the people of South Africa to the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the fallen soldiers. He recognized their bravery and commitment to peace in a volatile region.
The President confirmed that support is being provided to the families of the deceased and those injured, with efforts underway to repatriate the soldiers’ remains. The attacks also claimed the lives of peacekeepers from Malawi and Tanzania, as well as personnel from the UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO).
The situation in the conflict zones of Goma and Sake remains highly tense and unpredictable, with ongoing military and humanitarian challenges. The South African Minister of Defence, Ms. Angie Motshekga, along with the Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), General Rudzani Maphwanya, and the SAMIDRC Force Commander, Major General Monwabisi Dyakopu, are working to ensure the troops are adequately equipped and supported during this critical mission.
President Ramaphosa also addressed growing concerns over speculation regarding the conditions of the troops, urging South Africans to unite in support of the men and women who have dedicated their lives to peacekeeping efforts. He reaffirmed that South Africa’s presence in the DRC is not a declaration of war but part of a broader SADC and United Nations (UN) mission aimed at bringing stability and safeguarding lives in a conflict-ridden region.
The President also welcomed the recent statement from the UN Security Council, calling for an immediate end to hostilities, the withdrawal of external forces, and the resumption of peace talks under the Nairobi Process. He reiterated the importance of respecting the DRC’s territorial integrity and sovereignty in line with international law.
South Africa remains committed to diplomatic efforts for a peaceful resolution, urging all parties to engage fully in the Luanda Process and work towards silencing the guns for lasting peace and development across the continent.
