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South Africa Reinforces Troops in DRC

 By : Bwire Jonathan:The crown media East Africa 



South Africa Reinforces Troops in DRC Amid Rising Conflict and Domestic Backlash

Lubumbashi, DRC – South Africa has deployed between 700 and 800 additional soldiers to Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), reinforcing its presence amid escalating clashes with the M23 rebel group. This deployment follows the loss of 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers in January, marking a critical moment in South Africa’s intervention in the region.

Increased Military Presence and Logistics

With these reinforcements, the total number of South African troops in the DRC now exceeds 3,000, operating under both the UN peacekeeping mission and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) regional force (SAMIDRC). According to flight data, military transport planes, including an IL-76 cargo aircraft (EX-76008), completed five round-trip flights from Pretoria to Lubumbashi between January 30 and February 7, delivering troops, medical supplies, ammunition, and equipment.

The troop buildup suggests preparations for a secondary operational base in Lubumbashi, 1,500 km south of M23-controlled Goma, possibly as a contingency for future operations. Reports also indicate increased South African military flights to neighboring Burundi, signaling further regional coordination.

Strategic Motivations: Stability vs. Survival

The fall of Goma to M23 rebels in January left SANDF troops vulnerable, cut off from resupply routes, and in dire need of reinforcement. The South African government frames the mission as a necessary step to stabilize the region, support diplomatic efforts, and prevent the conflict from escalating further.

“Our presence in the DRC is not just about military action—it is about ensuring peace in the region,” said International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola, who warned that withdrawing now would be “worse than surrender.”

However, critics argue that SANDF is ill-prepared for the mission, highlighting logistical failures, outdated equipment, and inadequate air support. Defense analysts have raised concerns that South African troops are deployed without proper planning, a sentiment echoed by opposition lawmakers.

Domestic Criticism: “This Is Not Our War”

South Africa’s intervention in the DRC has sparked intense political debate at home. Opposition parties, including the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), have condemned the deployment, questioning the financial burden and operational readiness of SANDF.

Kobus Marais, a defense analyst, warned that “this is not our war”, while DA MP Chris Hattingh called for an immediate withdrawal, citing poor planning and insufficient logistical support. The debate has been fueled by budget cuts that have left South Africa’s military underfunded, with defense spending falling below 1% of GDP.

“Our troops are being sent into battle with outdated weapons and without proper air support,” said Hattingh. South Africa’s Gripen fighter jets and Rooivalk attack helicopters remain non-operational due to maintenance issues, further weakening the country’s military capabilities in the DRC.

Regional Tensions and Humanitarian Impact

The M23 insurgency, allegedly backed by Rwanda, has killed over 2,000 people and displaced hundreds of thousands since its offensive began. Uganda and Burundi have also reinforced their positions in eastern DRC, raising fears of a broader regional war similar to the devastating conflicts of the late 1990s.

Despite diplomatic efforts such as the Luanda Process, aimed at securing a ceasefire, fighting continues. Rwanda has repeatedly denied supporting M23, though the UN and regional leaders have linked the group to Kigali’s influence.

Political Fallout in South Africa

The ruling African National Congress (ANC) remains committed to the mission, arguing that South Africa has a moral duty to promote stability on the continent. However, economic constraints, mounting casualties, and domestic opposition have made continued involvement politically costly.

EFF leader Julius Malema slammed the mission as “suicidal,” arguing that South African troops are being thrown into a dangerous, unwinnable conflict. Meanwhile, calls for withdrawal are growing louder, particularly as elections approach, placing President Cyril Ramaphosa’s government under pressure to justify its continued engagement.

Conclusion

South Africa’s reinforcement in the DRC reflects both a commitment to regional security and a fragile balancing act amid growing domestic opposition. While the mission aims to curb the humanitarian disaster and prevent further M23 advances, SANDF’s operational limitations, resource shortages, and political divisions at home cast uncertainty over its long-term success.

With no clear resolution in sight, South Africa faces a difficult choice—withdraw and risk regional instability or persist despite mounting risks and internal discontent.


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