South African Soldiers in DRC Facing Dire Conditions and Calls for Withdrawal

South African soldiers deployed in eastern DRC under the SADC mission are in desperate need of support and supplies. Reports indicate that over a thousand troops are vulnerable and requesting to return home, as concerns about their safety escalate. Experts are calling for their withdrawal amidst increasing dangers and a questioned mission mandate against the M23 rebels.

South African troops stationed in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) under the Southern African Development Community Mission are facing a critical situation. Reports indicate that over one thousand South African soldiers in Goma are lacking essential supplies and food and have expressed a desperate desire to return home. Communication from the soldiers highlights concerns regarding inadequate support from the South African government.

The lack of resources and direction has led to increasing frustration among the troops. The South African National Defence Union has disclosed that soldiers are submitting distress messages regarding their precarious conditions. Their safety has become a pressing concern due to the volatile atmosphere surrounding them, raising fears that they are being used as bargaining chips in larger geopolitical maneuvers.

Security experts have urged the South African government to assess the viability of the troops’ mandate in the DRC. South African forces are presently leading efforts to assist the Congolese army against the M23 rebels, who have recently captured significant territories, including Goma. Other nations, such as Tanzania and Malawi, have also contributed troops to this mission, which has faced numerous challenges.

Recent evaluations indicate that nearly 200 SAMIDRC soldiers have been repatriated for medical reasons after confronting hostile forces in the DRC. The ongoing conflict has seen a precarious environment for South African and allied troops. Meanwhile, Malawi’s president has initiated the withdrawal of their soldiers, amidst growing scrutiny and calls for similar action from South Africa.

The dire situation of South African troops has come under heightened attention following the deaths of fourteen soldiers and injuries to nearly two hundred others. Experts advocate for a strategic withdrawal to ensure the safety of the troops. Defence Minister Angie Motshekga had previously stated that South African soldiers were equipped with adequate military resources during their engagement with M23 rebels.

The challenges faced by South African troops in the eastern DRC have raised significant concerns regarding their safety and the sustainability of their mission. With deteriorating conditions, inadequate support, and the evolving threat from M23 rebels, there are increasing calls for the withdrawal of these forces. As pressure mounts on the South African government, the focus remains on ensuring the welfare and safety of its soldiers in a tumultuous environment.

Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw