South Africa To Withdraw 700 Troops From UN Peacekeeping Mission In DR Congo After 27 Years
News Updated: 08 February 2026 14:46 EAT
M23 rebels in DR Congo
South Africa has announced that it will withdraw approximately 700 troops from the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), ending 27 years of continuous peacekeeping service. The decision was communicated by President Cyril Ramaphosa to UN Secretary-General António Guterres following a review of the country’s peacekeeping commitments.
The move reflects a broader effort to consolidate and realign the resources of the South African National Defence Force while addressing domestic concerns about the safety and sustainability of long-term deployments. South Africa has been one of the top troop-contributing countries to MONUSCO, providing support in protecting civilians, assisting humanitarian operations, and stabilising conflict zones.
MONUSCO, established in 1999, has played a critical role in the DRC by supporting peace agreements and providing security amid recurring violence. Over the years, South African troops have participated in patrols, logistics support, and joint operations with Congolese forces to contain armed groups and protect vulnerable populations.
The planned withdrawal will be coordinated with the United Nations to ensure a smooth transition and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. Details on timelines, troop rotations, and redeployment strategies are being finalised between Pretoria and UN officials.
The decision comes as eastern DRC experiences a resurgence of violence led by the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group. The group has seized key towns and strategic locations, escalating instability in the region and prompting international concern over civilian safety.
South Africa’s choice to withdraw is also influenced by prior casualties and operational challenges faced by its troops in the DRC. Domestic pressures have mounted to reduce foreign deployments, particularly after incidents involving fatalities among South African peacekeepers.
Despite the troop withdrawal, South Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to regional peace and stability. The country will continue to engage in diplomatic initiatives and multilateral efforts with the UN, African Union, and Southern African Development Community to support the Congolese government.
The UN Security Council has extended MONUSCO’s mandate until December 2026, maintaining thousands of peacekeepers in the DRC. The mission will continue to monitor ceasefires, assist in stabilisation efforts, and respond to threats posed by armed groups like M23, ensuring ongoing protection for civilians in conflict-affected areas.
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FELIX MAKONA
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