SANDF starts pulling troops out of DRC after SADC order

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has officially started pulling its troops and military equipment out of the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following a directive issued by SADC leaders in March.

This operation marks the beginning of the SANDF’s phased withdrawal from its role in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission, which was focused on neutralising armed rebel groups in the conflict-ridden region.

The SA National Defence Force Media Statement || Wednesday, 30 April 2025 ||SANDF begins phased withdrawal from the DRC in line with SADC Directive.

Media Statement by Defence Corporate Communication || Media Liaison.#SANDF#JointOperationsDivision#DCCMediaLiaison#DRC pic.twitter.com/Epe4CK9cjB

— SA National Defence Force ?? (@SANDF_ZA) May 1, 2025

According to a statement released on Thursday, the drawdown began on 29 April 2025 and will take place in stages. The SANDF assured the public that regular updates would be provided to ensure transparency on the safe return of personnel.

“The withdrawal is being conducted in a structured manner and includes the return of all deployed members and their equipment,” the SANDF said, adding that all necessary precautions are being taken to ensure the operation runs smoothly.

Troops exiting the DRC will use a pre-approved route that starts in Goma, passes through Rwanda, and continues to Chato in Tanzania, before soldiers are repatriated to South Africa and other SADC countries.

This route was recently evaluated and confirmed viable by a joint reconnaissance team consisting of military officials from South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania.

The SANDF’s return marks a key transition in regional peacekeeping operations, as SADC begins wrapping up its military mission in the DRC.

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Sourced:African Insider

Picture: Ground Up