By Akani Nkuna
Regional leaders have successfully facilitated a pivotal peace accord between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the M23 rebel movement, marking a significant step toward ending ongoing conflict in the eastern region.
The agreement, supported by the African Union, SADC and the East African Community, outlines key commitments including a ceasefire, disbarment, reintegration of fighter, and protection of civilians, raising hopes for lasting stability in the war-torn area.
“Furthermore, significant bilateral and multilateral meetings took place between the DRC government and regional actors, culminating in a peace agreement signed between the government of the DRC and representatives of the M23 movement,” said Defence Minister Angie Motshekga during a press briefing on Sunday.
She confirmed South Africa’s withdrawal of its troops from the DRC, ending their involvement in the SADC mission. She was joined by the SA National Defence Force chief General Rudzani Maphwaya, to brief the media on the move’s significance and its impact on regional peacekeeping strategies.
According to Motshekga, progress in political and diplomatic efforts over the past four months has advanced peace in eastern DRC.
Following the SAMIDRC Heads of State Summit in Harare on 13 March 2025, it was decided to end the mission and withdraw troops, allowing diplomatic solutions to address the region’s complex security challenges involving various stakeholders.
“The withdrawal of SANDF troops from the eastern DRC marks a new chapter in our regional peacekeeping efforts. This reflects confidence in the DRC’s quest to manage its internal security challenges with reduced external military presence, supported by ongoing diplomatic and development partnerships,” she added.
Motshekga emphasised that the withdrawal of the troops was being carefully managed to guarantee the safe return of personnel and equipment, with full logistical support maintained throughout the process.
She further reaffirmed South Africa’s ongoing commitment to a peaceful and stable DRC, highlighting that diplomatic, developmental and humanitarian efforts would remain in place despite the military exit.
Maphwaya confirmed that following a key meeting in Goma on 28 March 2025, SADC began withdrawing troops and equipment from Goma and Sake via Rwanda. The process, which started on 29 April, involves moving personnel and logistics by road to Tanzania.
Some advance teams have already arrived, with some more scheduled to depart in early May. Most equipment will be shipped by sea from Dar es Salaam to South Africa.
“In accordance with the plan, it is envisaged that most of the personnel will be nearly complete in South Africa by end of May 2025 except for those who have to oversee the shipping part of the equipment. The movement from Tanzania to RSA will be by air for personnel and by sea for cargo,” Maphwaya added.
INSIDE POLITICS