Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya
By Thobeka Makume
Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya has dismissed claims that South African troops are in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to protect President Cyril Ramaphosa’s mining interests. He emphasised that South African National Defence Force (SANDF) deployments in the DRC are part of long-standing peacekeeping missions aimed at stabilising the region.
Addressing the media in Parliament on Wednesday, Magwenya responded to allegations from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and a spokesperson for Rwandan President Paul Kagame. Both parties suggested that the SANDF’s presence in the DRC serves to safeguard the business interests of Ramaphosa and his associates. Magwenya refuted these claims, stating, “To reduce such a long commitment to the attainment of peace in the DRC, on our continent, to the protection of mining interests is completely devoid of any truth.” 
He further highlighted South Africa’s extensive history of peacekeeping on the continent, noting, “We’ve been involved in more than 20 peacekeeping initiatives on the continent, the latest being Mozambique.” 
Background of Allegations
The controversy arose when EFF Member of Parliament Natasha Ntlangwini alleged that the SANDF’s deployment in the DRC was primarily to protect the mining interests of Ramaphosa’s associates. Similarly, Yolande Makolo, spokesperson for President Kagame, claimed that South African troops were in the DRC to safeguard Ramaphosa’s personal business interests. 
Makolo’s comments intensified the debate, leading to a public exchange between the South African and Rwandan administrations. In response, Magwenya emphasised that such assertions lack understanding of South Africa’s role in regional stability and are not based on evidence.
South Africa’s Peacekeeping Role
South Africa has been a significant contributor to peacekeeping missions across Africa since the late 1990s. The SANDF’s involvement in the DRC began through contributions to the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), aiming to bring stability to a region plagued by conflict.
Over the years, South African troops have played crucial roles in various operations, including efforts to neutralise armed rebel groups and protect civilians. The country’s commitment to peacekeeping is rooted in its foreign policy principles, which emphasise the promotion of peace, security, and stability on the African continent.
Official Responses to Allegations
Defence Minister Angie Motshekga also addressed the claims, labelling them as absurd. She pointed out that the peacekeeping mission in the DRC is sanctioned by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and supported by the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN). Motshekga stated, “It would really shake to the core that heads of state of 15 countries meet… and agreed to the mission. So, it means all of the 15… agreed to go and support the interests of South African business. It can’t be true.” 
Furthermore, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula dismissed speculation that the SANDF was deployed to the DRC to protect private interests, affirming that the deployment aligns with South Africa’s commitment to regional peace and security. 
International Relations and Future Engagements
In light of the allegations, Magwenya did not rule out the possibility of a meeting between President Ramaphosa and President Kagame. Such a meeting could occur at upcoming regional gatherings, including a Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit in Tanzania or an African Union (AU) assembly later in 2025. The aim would be to address any misunderstandings and reinforce collaborative efforts towards regional stability.
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