Ramaphosa and Kagame
By Mpho Moloi
President Cyril Ramaphosa and Rwandan President Paul Kagame have urgently called for a ceasefire in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following the escalating violence that has resulted in the deaths of nine South African National Defence Force (SANDF) peacekeepers.
The two leaders engaged in a telephone discussion on Monday, 27 January 2025, to address the worsening conflict in the DRC. Both presidents emphasized the need for peace talks among all parties involved in the fighting, which has expanded into neighbouring regions and sparked fears of a broader regional crisis.
Escalating Conflict in Goma and Beyond
Reports from the ground indicate that combat zones have spread throughout the regional capital of Goma in the DRC. A video circulating online purportedly shows South African forces in Goma exchanging fire with M23 rebels across the Rwandan border in Gisenyi.
Rwandan military spokesperson Ronald Rwivanga confirmed that shelling had killed five civilians and wounded 25 others in Gisenyi. Eyewitness accounts describe intense gunfire and mortar strikes, with humanitarian workers being forced to evacuate the area.
International observers have expressed growing alarm over the humanitarian crisis. “The violence is spiralling, with severe consequences for regional security,” noted Maina Kingori from CARE International.
South Africa Mourns Nine Fallen Soldiers
The SANDF confirmed the deaths of nine South African soldiers deployed under the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC). The tragedy has sparked widespread grief and outrage within South Africa, with the government under scrutiny for the preparedness of its troops.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for an urgent parliamentary debate to assess whether South African soldiers were adequately equipped for the mission. “Our soldiers must never be sent into harm’s way without proper resources,” stated DA Defence spokesperson Chris Hattingh.
Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has also condemned the government’s handling of the deployment. “What M23 did to us is a declaration of war. We must protect our soldiers or bring them home,” Malema said.
Malema highlighted alleged resource shortages, including claims that soldiers lacked ammunition and air support. “We deployed people and called them soldiers, but they didn’t even have bullets,” he lamented.
Government Under Fire for Delayed Response
The South African Defence Union (SANDU) has criticised the Department of Defence for its delayed response to the crisis. Reports indicate it took over 48 hours for the department to release a formal statement on the casualties, leaving families and the public in anguish.
The EFF has called for the resignation of Defence Minister Angie Motshekga, citing “gross incompetence” and a failure to prioritise soldier safety. The party also accused the government of neglecting the conditions faced by peacekeepers in a volatile region.
Regional Tensions and Calls for Ceasefire
The involvement of Rwandan troops in the conflict has further complicated the situation. Rwanda and the DRC have traded accusations over border violations, with the DRC claiming that Rwandan forces are supporting the M23 rebels—an allegation Kigali denies.
President Kagame’s recent remarks, however, suggest a willingness to engage in dialogue. His call with President Ramaphosa underscores the urgency of diplomatic intervention.
Both leaders have agreed to press for a ceasefire and the resumption of peace talks under the auspices of the United Nations and the African Union.
Humanitarian Crisis Intensifies
The conflict in the DRC has displaced thousands of residents, with humanitarian agencies struggling to provide aid. The United Nations has warned of a worsening crisis, as fighting disrupts access to food, water, and medical supplies.
Internet services in Goma have been cut, and phone networks remain unreliable, further complicating relief efforts. International organisations have called for an immediate end to hostilities to address the humanitarian fallout.
The Role of M23 and Regional Instability
The M23 rebel group, a key player in the conflict, has been accused of committing atrocities in the DRC. Their advanced weaponry and strategic operations pose significant challenges for peacekeeping forces.
Experts warn that the instability in the DRC could have ripple effects across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. “The stability of the DRC is directly linked to the stability of southern Africa,” stated a senior official.
South Africa’s continued involvement in the DRC reflects its commitment to regional peace and security. However, the recent fatalities have raised questions about the efficacy of peacekeeping missions and the resources allocated to such operations.
EFF and DA Demand Immediate Action
The EFF has reiterated its demand for the immediate withdrawal of SANDF troops, arguing that the deployment prioritises corporate interests over soldier safety. “The exploitation of the DRC’s mineral wealth is at the root of this conflict,” Malema stated.
Meanwhile, the DA has urged the government to prioritise the safety and well-being of soldiers, calling for a comprehensive review of South Africa’s role in the DRC mission.
A Nation Mourns and Reflects
As South Africa mourns the loss of its soldiers, calls for accountability and strategic planning grow louder. The deaths have sparked a national conversation about the country’s foreign policy and its role in regional peacekeeping efforts.
President Ramaphosa is expected to address Parliament later this week to provide updates on the situation and outline the government’s response to the crisis.
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