Public urged to support SANDF troop withdrawal from DRC! The South African public is being urged to exercise patience and sensitivity as efforts are made to bring home the country’s troops stationed in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
On Thursday, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) extraordinary summit, held in Harare, Zimbabwe, officially terminated the mandate of a military delegation that included troops from South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania.
The decision means that the troops, who were deployed to the eastern part of the DRC in December 2023, will now be withdrawn in phases.
SADC Leaders Order Phased Withdrawal
The SADC heads of state, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, have emphasized that the withdrawal must be carefully managed to ensure the safety and security of the soldiers.
This decision comes as South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers have faced increasing risks in the region, with 16 troops losing their lives in January due to the ongoing conflict. Their bodies were repatriated a month later and given military burials.
SANDU Calls for Public Sensitivity
The South African National Defence Union (SANDU) has urged the public to be understanding and supportive of the withdrawal process.
SANDU’s national secretary, Pikkie Greef, emphasized that withdrawing soldiers from an active conflict zone is a complex operation that requires careful planning.
“We do believe that plans are afoot for the execution of the withdrawal, and we sensitise the public that this phase of the process is a very sensitive one,” Greef said.
He also welcomed the decision to withdraw the troops, stating that SANDF forces had been in an increasingly dangerous position in the DRC.
Challenges Faced by SANDF in the DRC
Since their deployment in December 2023, SANDF soldiers have been assisting SADC’s mission in stabilizing the eastern region of the DRC, which has been plagued by armed conflict and insurgencies.
However, attacks on troops have intensified, raising concerns about their safety and well-being. The loss of 16 soldiers in January was a tragic reminder of the dangers they face daily.
The withdrawal process is expected to be gradual and carefully coordinated to ensure that the soldiers can return home safely without further casualties.
Government Assures Public of a Managed Exit
The South African government has assured the nation that it is working closely with SADC and other regional partners to ensure a smooth and organized withdrawal.
The Department of Defence has also stated that all necessary logistical and security measures are being put in place to protect the returning troops.
Public Urged to Support Soldiers and Families
As the withdrawal process unfolds, South Africans are being called upon to show support for the troops and their families, many of whom have endured months of uncertainty and worry.
Organizations such as SANDU continue to advocate for better support structures for soldiers returning from combat zones, emphasizing the need for counseling and reintegration programs.
Conclusion
The decision to withdraw SANDF troops from the DRC marks an important turning point in South Africa’s military involvement in the region.
While the process will take time, SADC leaders and military officials are working to ensure that it is carried out safely and effectively.
For now, the public is being encouraged to remain patient, supportive, and understanding as South Africa’s brave soldiers prepare to return home.