Nine SANDF soldiers were killed during two days of relentless combat against the M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Additionally, dozens of soldiers sustained injuries in the confrontation.
Halting the Rebel Advance
The Department of Defence’s Head of Communication, Siphiwe Dlamini, commended the heroic efforts of the South African contingent and their allies.
“The South African forces, along with regional counterparts, successfully thwarted the M23 rebels’ attempt to advance into Goma,” said Dlamini. “Despite intense attacks, our soldiers stood firm and managed to push the rebels back.”
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Reports confirm that seven of the fallen soldiers were part of the South African contingent deployed in December 2023 under the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), while the remaining two were associated with the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).
Casualties Among Allied Forces
In addition to the SANDF casualties, three Malawian soldiers serving with SAMIDRC also lost their lives during clashes near Goma. The number of wounded personnel remains unconfirmed but is estimated to exceed two dozen.
The Department of Defence stated that efforts to notify the families of the deceased soldiers are underway.
Condemnation from SADC
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) expressed strong disapproval of the recent M23 attacks on SAMIDRC forces. In a statement, SADC described the rebels’ actions as a threat to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and stability of both the DRC and the broader region.
“The M23’s pursuit of territorial expansion exacerbates the dire humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC,” the statement read. “Thousands have lost their lives, and millions, including vulnerable groups such as women, children, and the elderly, have been displaced from their homes.”
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Violations of Peace Agreements
SADC highlighted that the M23’s actions violated the Nairobi Peace Process and the ceasefire agreements brokered through the Luanda Process, led by Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço. The bloc called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and demanded that M23 forces withdraw from occupied territories.
“We urge all parties to honor their commitments under existing peace agreements and engage in constructive dialogue to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region,” SADC emphasized.