The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has reiterated its commitment to United Nations peacekeeping missions, even as it nears the final stages of withdrawing troops and equipment from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The announcement came as the SANDF commemorated International United Nations Peacekeepers Day, honoring soldiers who lost their lives in service.
Honoring Fallen Heroes
The day was marked by emotional tributes to fallen troops, with families remembering loved ones who died in unstable and dangerous regions over the past 26 years. One family member shared their grief, stating, “It’s very tough, especially for me and our kid, but we have support from the defense—social workers, chaplains, psychologists. We will never forget them.”
The SANDF praised the bravery of soldiers who “died with their boots on,” acknowledging their sacrifices for regional stability.
DRC Withdrawal Progresses
The Department of Defence confirmed it is in the second phase of withdrawing troops and equipment from the DRC as part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission. “We are working around the clock with the SADC Secretariat to ensure all our people and equipment return safely from eastern DRC,” a defense official stated.
The withdrawal follows a challenging deployment, including a deadly battle in Goma, described as the SANDF’s worst combat loss since World War II. Military analysts have raised concerns over inadequate air support and logistics during the mission.
Budget Constraints and Procurement Scandals
Despite financial pressures, the SANDF insists budget cuts will not derail plans to modernize its technology. Meanwhile, Defense Minister Thandi Modise welcomed a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) probe into COVID-19 procurement fraud within the department. “It’s disappointing that people exploited a crisis to steal. We must hold them accountable,” she said.
Expert Analysis: Can South Africa Sustain Peacekeeping?
Willem Els, a senior training coordinator at the Institute for Security Studies, noted that South Africa’s military is overstretched, spending less than 1% of GDP on defense—far below the global benchmark of 2%. “We lack airlift capacity, ground support, and resources. Without proper funding, effective peacekeeping will be difficult,” he warned.
Els also questioned the SANDF’s readiness for future missions, citing intelligence and logistical failures in the DRC. “Before deploying again, we need better planning, resources, and troop support,” he emphasized.
Looking Ahead
While South Africa remains committed to UN peacekeeping, the SANDF faces significant hurdles—balancing budget constraints, equipment shortages, and the need for structural reforms. As the DRC withdrawal concludes, the focus now shifts to honoring the fallen, rebuilding capabilities, and ensuring future missions are better supported.
For now, the nation remembers its peacekeepers—brave men and women who served far from home, some making the ultimate sacrifice.
