The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has had a long-standing presence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), playing a key role in peacekeeping operations. However, 2024 has been a particularly challenging year for the SANDF, with ten of its soldiers losing their lives in the conflict-ridden region.
SANDF’s Role in the DRC
The SANDF is part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC). Its involvement in the DRC is largely aimed at stabilizing the eastern part of the country, which has been plagued by rebel insurgencies such as M23, a notorious rebel group known for destabilizing the area around Goma and Beni. The South African military’s presence in the DRC is part of broader peacekeeping and conflict resolution efforts under the United Nations and African Union.
Recent Tragedies
The most recent incident occurred in July 2024, when a SANDF soldier was tragically shot and killed near Goma Airport. The soldier was reportedly dressed in civilian clothing and was returning to his base after visiting a local restaurant. His body was discovered the following morning, and five people have since been arrested in connection with his death, including the restaurant manager and three Rwandan women living illegally in the DRC.
This incident is part of a string of fatalities involving SANDF personnel in the DRC this year. In early July, Major Tolla Pieterse died when a grenade detonated at his sleeping quarters in Beni. His death, which is being investigated as a possible murder, was one of several that have raised concerns about internal tensions within the SANDF ranks. Pieterse’s strict leadership style had reportedly drawn complaints from disgruntled soldiers.
Additionally, on 14 February 2024, two SANDF soldiers were killed, and three others were injured in a mortar attack by the M23 rebels. Another attack on 30 May saw a medic killed and 13 others wounded during fighting near Sake, while two Captains were killed in a subsequent M23 mortar attack in June.
Challenges Facing SANDF in the DRC
The SANDF faces a unique set of challenges in the DRC, where both combat and non-combat fatalities are becoming increasingly common. The region’s complex political environment, coupled with volatile rebel activity, makes it a dangerous posting for peacekeeping forces.
While SANDF’s involvement in the DRC is vital to stabilizing the region, the rising death toll raises questions about the safety of South African soldiers. With multiple fatalities resulting from internal issues such as disgruntled soldiers and the harsh realities of combat, military leadership will likely have to review strategies for both internal management and operational safety.
The Future of SANDF in the DRC
As the SANDF continues its peacekeeping mission in the DRC, the loss of its soldiers in 2024 underscores the risks involved in maintaining stability in one of Africa’s most troubled regions. With an internal investigation underway to uncover the circumstances behind the latest fatality, and ongoing efforts to quell rebel activity in the region, the SANDF will need to adapt and reinforce its strategies to ensure the safety of its personnel while fulfilling its peacekeeping mandate.
Conclusion
The South African National Defence Force’s deployment in the DRC remains a critical aspect of South Africa’s commitment to peace and security in Africa. However, the spate of deaths in 2024 reveals the harsh realities of military engagement in conflict zones