After 27 years, SA to pull soldiers from UN mission in the Congo

South Africa is set to withdraw its troops from the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), bringing to an end nearly three decades of continuous military involvement in the conflict-ravaged country.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has formally notified the United Nations of the decision, which will see more than 700 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members gradually withdrawn from the UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO). The withdrawal is expected to be completed before the end of 2026.

The Presidency said the decision was influenced by the need to consolidate and realign the resources of the SANDF, which is under increasing strain due to budget constraints, ageing equipment and multiple operational demands.

“South Africa will work jointly with the UN to finalise the timelines and other modalities of the withdrawal, which will be completed before the end of 2026,” the Presidency said in a statement.

South Africa has been involved in UN peacekeeping operations in the DRC for 27 years, contributing troops to successive missions aimed at stabilising the country, protecting civilians and supporting Congolese security forces. SANDF members have played a key role in some of the most dangerous areas of eastern DRC, often operating under difficult and hostile conditions.

Despite the withdrawal from MONUSCO, government stressed that South Africa would not be disengaging from peace and security efforts in the region. The Presidency said the country would continue to support peace initiatives in the DRC through regional and international partnerships, including those under the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union.

“Government will continue to maintain close bilateral relations with the government of the DRC,” the statement said.

The decision comes amid growing debate over the SANDF’s capacity to meet both domestic and international commitments. Defence analysts and former military leaders have repeatedly warned that the force is overstretched and underfunded, raising concerns about its operational readiness.

Earlier this year, a retired army chief said both the SANDF and the South African Police Service lacked the capacity to effectively manage serious security threats, prompting renewed calls for a review of South Africa’s defence posture.

The situation in the eastern DRC remains volatile, with armed groups continuing to clash despite the long-standing presence of UN forces. MONUSCO itself has faced increasing criticism within the DRC, including protests demanding the mission’s withdrawal and greater emphasis on regional solutions.

South Africa’s withdrawal will be carried out in phases, in coordination with the UN, to avoid disrupting operations or placing remaining peacekeepers at risk. Officials have indicated that the drawdown will be carefully managed to ensure a smooth transition.

The SANDF is currently deployed in several external missions while also being tasked with domestic responsibilities such as border safeguarding and support during civil unrest and natural disasters.