The South African National Defence Union (SANDU) has reported the deaths of three South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers during clashes with M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The soldiers were killed on January 23 in North Kivu Province, where the rebels have captured several towns and are threatening the provincial capital, Goma.
On Saturday, January 25, Sandu extended condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the fallen soldiers. “Their sacrifice, along with the injuries sustained by at least 14 other SANDF members in the ongoing conflict, underscores the immense dangers faced by those working to uphold peace and stability,” Sandu stated. “Many of these brave soldiers are proud members of Sandu who have served their country with unwavering dedication.”
The union raised concerns over a lack of transparency and communication from military leadership. Sandu National Secretary Pikkie Greef criticized the delays in reporting casualties, stating, “Soldiers deserve more than silence. Their sacrifices and injuries demand immediate acknowledgment and action from our leaders. It is unacceptable for such critical information to be delayed or withheld.”
Sandu called on President Cyril Ramaphosa, as Commander-in-Chief, to address the nation and provide clarity on the situation in the DRC. “The government must prioritize open communication and decisive action to honor the sacrifices of those who risk their lives for our country,” the statement concluded.
At the time of publication, SANDF indicated it was still verifying information and would release a formal statement soon.
Escalating Conflict in North Kivu
South African soldiers are serving as part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC). They have been engaged in fierce battles with M23 rebels, who recently captured the town of Sake, located less than 30 kilometers from Goma. The rebels have also seized several other strategic locations, including Minova, a vital port on Lake Kivu, as well as Katale and Masisi.
The United Nations reports that 400,000 people have been displaced due to the recent surge in violence. MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC, has joined efforts to combat M23, losing at least five peacekeepers in the process.
Last year, six South African soldiers died during operations in the DRC, and the death toll from this month’s fighting is expected to rise beyond the three reported fatalities.
Criticism of SANDF and Call for Withdrawal
The Democratic Alliance (DA) joined Sandu in expressing condolences to the families of the deceased soldiers and voiced concerns about the SANDF’s preparedness and communication. DA defense spokesperson Chris Hattingh criticized the lack of updates from SANDF leadership, stating that “South Africans must rely on DRC sources to be informed of casualties.”
Hattingh also highlighted concerns about SANDF’s capacity, citing years of budget cuts that have led to reduced training, outdated equipment, and limited air support. “The continued deployment of undertrained, underequipped, and under-supported South African soldiers in an escalating regional conflict cannot be justified,” Hattingh said, reiterating the DA’s call for the withdrawal of SANDF forces from the DRC.
Defense Minister Angie Motshekga, who was in the DRC from January 22 to 25, has faced criticism over the handling of SANDF deployments. Her spokesperson, Onicca Kwakwa, assured the public that Motshekga was safe and would provide a detailed briefing upon her return.
M23 has issued warnings to both SAMIDRC and MONUSCO, stating that it will exercise its “full right to self-defense” in the ongoing conflict. The rebel group has also signaled its intent to capture Goma, following its takeover of Sake.
The situation in eastern DR Congo remains tense, with regional and international forces engaged in efforts to halt the advance of M23 rebels, whose actions have led to significant displacement and suffering among the local population.
