**Second Wave of SANDF Troops Returns from DRC Mission** **By Shonisani Tshikalange | 15 June 2025 | #sanews #newsdaily #sowetannews #encanews #googlenews**

A fresh group of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers is scheduled to arrive back on home soil this **Sunday afternoon**, marking the ongoing phased withdrawal of troops deployed in the **Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)**.

According to SANDF officials, the **second group of returning troops** will land at **Air Force Base Waterkloof** in Pretoria between **3pm and 5pm**. A **third and final group** is expected to touch down on **Monday afternoon**, concluding South Africa’s contribution to the **SADC peacekeeping mission**.

The returning soldiers are part of a mission that began in **December 2023**, aimed at supporting the DRC government in its fight against **M23 rebel groups** in the country’s eastern conflict zones. South African troops played a critical role in securing strategic regions and protecting civilians amid escalating violence.

The SANDF has confirmed that upon arrival, the soldiers will undergo a **standard demobilisation programme**, including **medical checkups, psychological support, and family reunification services**.

This return follows the **first group of 249 soldiers** who landed at Waterkloof on **Friday night**, later travelling to **Tempe military base in Bloemfontein** in the early hours of Saturday. Their arrival was slightly delayed due to **technical and logistical challenges**.

In **March 2025**, the **Southern African Development Community (SADC)** officially announced the **termination of its military mandate** in the DRC. The decision, based on a directive from an extraordinary **SADC summit**, prompted the **phased withdrawal** of all deployed forces, including those from South Africa.

Tragically, the mission was not without loss. Earlier this year, **14 South African soldiers** were killed during clashes with rebel forces when **Goma**, the capital of **North Kivu province**, fell to M23 insurgents. Their remains were repatriated in **February**, and scores more SANDF troops were injured during operations.

Despite these hardships, the SANDF remains firm in its stance that the withdrawal is intended to allow **diplomatic efforts and peace negotiations** to take the lead in restoring stability in the DRC.

Speaking earlier, **Lt-Gen Rudzani Maphwanya**, chief of the SANDF, said, *“Our mission has demonstrated courage and commitment. As we bring our troops home, we shift focus to long-term peace-building and regional cooperation.”*

In recent months, concerns have also been raised regarding **budget constraints** within the SANDF, with **Defence Minister Angie Motshekga** stating that limited funding has hampered operations and slowed the repatriation process.

As the final flights prepare to land, families and the nation await with pride and gratitude. The return of these brave men and women is not just a military movement—**it is a reminder of South Africa’s enduring role in regional peacekeeping efforts**.

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