Defence Minister Angie Motshekga Affirms No South African Troops in Combat Operations in DRC

by Central News Reporter
0 comments
Defence Minister Angie Motshekga Affirms No South African Troops in Combat Operations in DRC

Defence Minister Angie Motshekga

In a recent Parliamentary session, Defence Minister Angie Motshekga dismissed allegations from political parties that South African troops are engaged in combat operations in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Minister firmly reiterated the South African government’s stance that their troops are part of a multilateral peacekeeping mission established during a Southern African Development Community (SADC) meeting in Namibia in 2023.

Motshekga directly confronted accusations from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) suggesting the South African government is deploying troops to protect its business interests in the DRC. The Minister clarified that the deployment is financially supported by the United Nations (UN), the African Union (AU), and other SADC member states, emphasizing that it would be irrational for other nations to endorse a mission purely benefiting South Africa’s economic interests.

“The United Nations supports a mission allegedly designed to protect South African business ventures? It defies logic,” Motshekga asserted. She addressed logistical and financial criticisms by highlighting that the current mission in Goma is adequately equipped for peacekeeping, not warfare. “You equip yourself sufficiently for self-defense, but avoid excessive firepower,” she elaborated, underscoring the nuanced nature of the mission.

In response to the tragic loss of 14 South African soldiers in recent conflicts, the conversation shifted to operational readiness and the adequacy of resources provided to the troops. The Minister did not deny previous concerns about under-resourcing the South African Army but insisted these were not specific to the DRC mission. In this regard, she acknowledged ongoing support from regional and international bodies that bolster the mission’s operational capacity.

Motshekga’s statements followed intense questioning from parliamentary members about the legitimacy and objectives of the South African National Defence Force’s (SANDF) presence in the region. Despite growing tension, she maintained the deployment’s purpose: facilitating peaceful resolution through dialogue and negotiation rather than military confrontation.

Parliamentary Debate on SANDF Deployment

The Parliamentary briefing articulated by both Minister Motshekga and the SANDF command team, including Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya, aimed to provide transparency regarding the South African contingent’s involvement in the DRC. The session highlighted the operational structure, affirming the deployment under the SADC brigade, including cooperation with Tanzanian and Malawian forces under the SADC-FOR framework.

Numerous parliamentary members demanded clarity on several operational factors, including strategic planning, resource allocation, and the geopolitical implications of the mission. Concerns about the soldiers’ safety grew primarily due to reports of M23 rebel activities in Goma and questions about whether the troops are receiving sufficient supplies, including logistical and medical support.

The General’s update confirmed temporary truces are in place between the SANDF and the M23, allowing time and space for the diplomatic processing of South African casualties and the eventual repatriation of the fallen soldiers’ remains. The General assured that the deceased would be repatriated promptly, with efforts underway in coordination with the UN and SADC for smooth execution, made challenging by infrastructural and security issues on the ground.

International and Regional Dynamics Amidst Diplomatic Efforts

Recent international interactions, such as those involving Rwandan President Paul Kagame and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, have underlined the necessity for diplomatic mediation. These dynamics add significance to the call for strengthened dialogue between the Eastern African and the Southern African regions—the principal facilitators of peace in the DRC.

The core diplomatic efforts focus on long-running regional tensions and militia insurgencies, magnifying the multi-stakeholder approach involving the AU and UN. Such dynamics demand diplomatic interventions, as acknowledged by parliamentary members asserting the solution lies in leveraging regional peace arrangements and broad international support to mediate a long-lasting resolution.

Ensuring Peace and Stability: The Way Forward

Ultimately, Minister Motshekga articulated a commitment to concluding military engagements with structured peace negotiations, underscoring discussions with key regional players. The emerging peacekeeping versus peace-enforcement debate underscores the complexity of maintaining stability while pursuing lasting diplomatic solutions within the DRC’s fraught political landscape.

However, the South African government maintains that peace in the DRC and regional security are critical, not only for the citizens of the DRC but also for broader regional stability implicating the African continent’s aspirations for enduring peace and socio-economic advancement. Minister Motshekga’s briefing affirmed the country’s commitment to both regional cooperation and ethical engagement in international peacekeeping initiatives.

Defence Minister Angie Motshekga Affirms No South African Troops in Combat Operations in DRC
Defence Minister Angie Motshekga Affirms No South African Troops in Combat Operations in DRC

🔴 Central News Special Edition | Issue 091 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: Ndlozi on Ramaphosa: “He’s Not What We Were Told” – A Surprising Change in Tone”

Download Here:

Direct PDF Link:

https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Central-News-Issue-091.pdf

Read all our publications on magzter:

https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues


Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.

We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.

Advertisement:

To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za

For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za

Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za

General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za

Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za

Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487

Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za

Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube

centralnewsza #news

Related Articles

Leave a Comment

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept