The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) says the phased withdrawal of the country’s troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has commenced as of the 29th of April.
The withdrawal was informed by an agreement reached by Heads of State and government during the SADC Extraordinary Summit which was held virtually in March this year.
The withdrawal also includes other SAMIDRC troops.
Through a statement the SANDF expressed its commitment to safely bring the soldiers back home.
“This plan will ensure the safe and efficient return of personnel and assets.
The withdrawal will take place in phases and the SANDF will provide regular updates to the public regarding the safe return of our soldiers to the Republic of South Africa,” read the statement from the SANDF.
It further indicates that an assessment of the routes to be used by soldiers to withdraw from DRC has been concluded.
“A reconnaissance mission which included representatives from Republic of Malawi, Republic of South Africa and United Republic of Tanzania and SADC Secretariat was conducted from 14 to 19 April 2025 to assess and confirm the withdrawal route from Goma (DRC) through Rwanda to Chato in the United Republic of Tanzania towards the respective TCC home countries,” explained the SANDF.
Seventeen SAMIDRC soldiers were killed in the eastern DRC in January, including 14 SANDF members while others sustained serious injuries during clashes with M23 rebels.
