CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP) — The South African National Defense Force (SANDF) announced on Thursday that it has commenced the withdrawal of its peacekeeping troops from rebel-controlled eastern Congo. This decision follows a series of events that have left peacekeepers from multiple southern African nations stranded amidst ongoing conflict in the region. The withdrawal of the troops began earlier this week, with plans for them to travel through neighboring Rwanda to Tanzania before returning home by air.
South African peacekeeping forces were part of a contingent that also included troops from Malawi and Tanzania. This multi-national force was intended to stabilize eastern Congo, particularly in light of renewed hostilities launched by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. These rebels initiated an offensive in late January, which culminated in their capture of the strategic city of Goma, causing significant disarray for the peacekeeping mission and leaving the participating soldiers vulnerable.
Tragically, the situation has resulted in considerable loss of life. Reports indicate that in January, fourteen South African soldiers and three Malawian soldiers were killed in combat with the M23 rebels. In response to the escalating violence and the untenable situation for their troops, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) made the decision in March to conclude its peacekeeping mission earlier than planned and bring the soldiers home.
Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe announced via social media platform X that Rwanda is facilitating safe passage and providing an escort for the peacekeepers as they withdraw along with their equipment. This step is crucial given the tense atmosphere on the ground and the operational risks associated with the withdrawal.
In a related development, hundreds of stranded Congolese government soldiers and police officers, along with their families, began their transfer from Goma back to the Congolese capital, Kinshasa, as reported by the International Committee of the Red Cross. This initiative is part of ongoing humanitarian efforts to assist those affected by the conflict and the fallout from the M23's actions.
The M23 rebels currently hold control over Goma and at least one other significant city in eastern Congo. Estimates suggest that the group is being reinforced by approximately 4,000 troops from Rwanda, revealing the complexity and regional dimensions of the conflict. The situation has drawn international attention, prompting talks between Congo and Rwanda, which are being mediated by Qatar and receiving support from the United States, with both nations expressing a commitment to pursuing a peace agreement.
As the withdrawal of South African, Malawian, and Tanzanian troops unfolds, the international community is closely monitoring the developments in eastern Congo. The interplay of local and international interests continues to shape the region's stability, raising pressing questions about the efficacy of peacekeeping missions in the face of entrenched and ongoing conflicts.
For further updates on this developing situation, please refer to AP News Africa coverage.
