South Africa’s Defence Minister emphasized the necessity to reassess the Southern African mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where troops from multiple nations, including South Africa, are stationed to assist in combating Rwanda-backed insurgents.
Minister Angie Motshekga informed Reuters on Friday that an evaluation process is currently in progress regarding the potential withdrawal of South African forces.
She noted that leaders from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community are scheduled to convene soon to address this matter.
“South Africa operates under the guidance of these organizations, and any decision regarding troop withdrawal will be based on their processes and resolutions,” she stated in a text message.
The South African military’s involvement in Congo has faced significant domestic criticism, particularly following the January capture of Goma, which left South African troops encircled and lacking a definitive exit plan.
