A total of 250 SANDF soldiers that are deployed in the DRC are set to be returned to South Africa in a pullout mission.
This marks the commencement of the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) termination of its stabilisation mission in the conflict-ridden eastern DRC territories.
250 SANDF Soldiers In The DRC To Return Home
SADC leadership confirmed the mission’s conclusion in March after suffering significant casualties, including 17 fallen soldiers, during intensified combat operations against M23 insurgents allegedly supported by Rwandan forces.
The multinational peacekeeping force, operational since December 2023, comprised military personnel from South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania working collectively under the SAMIDRC banner.
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The extraction process follows a carefully structured timeline:
- Phase One (April 2024): Removal of mission-critical equipment and logistical infrastructure
- Phase Two (Current): Systematic repatriation of personnel with individual gear and remaining operational assets
A few months ago SANDF soldiers were killed in the uprisings that are in DRC against Rwanda. The news was heartbreaking to their families and the nation they serve.
Multi-National Troop Redeployment Underway
Peacekeeping units previously stationed in the high-conflict areas surrounding Goma and Sake will return through coordinated transportation channels. Tanzanian forces will first regroup in Dar es Salaam, while South African and Malawian contingents will receive direct airlift transportation to their home nations.
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This withdrawal concludes SADC’s direct military intervention aimed at supporting the Congolese government’s stabilization efforts in mineral-rich eastern provinces plagued by persistent insurgent activity. The regional body continues to monitor the security situation while transitioning to alternative conflict resolution strategies.