The withdrawal comes in the wake of mounting security concerns, especially after a recent deadly attack by M23 rebels targeting peacekeepers stationed in the volatile eastern provinces.

Defence Minister Angie Motshekga confirmed that plans are already in motion to ensure the safe return of SA soldiers. Speaking to the media, she highlighted the logistical hurdles being tackled to bring the troops back home, including damaged infrastructure and route coordination.

“We’re working on the logistics to bring them home safely. Every time I meet with the generals, we go over the progress, whether it’s the containers, the flights, or the routes. The plan is underway. We’ll announce the exact date soon, but we’re currently resolving issues at Goma Airport and weighing whether to go through Uganda or Rwanda. What’s certain is that they are coming home, and we’re doing the groundwork to make that happen,” she said.

SA forces were deployed under SADC’s regional intervention aimed at supporting the Congolese government in pushing back rebel groups destabilising the area. However, the mission faced growing challenges amid intensified rebel activity and a deteriorating security environment.

--ChannelAfrica--