The recent assault on Goma by M23 rebels has resulted in the tragic loss of 13 South African soldiers, members of SAMIDRC. This is raising alarms back home and questioning the wisdom of military intervention in a foreign land. To worsen things, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa accused the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group of killing the peacekeepers.
South Africa's role has been crucial in this fight since it is the largest contributor to the SAMIDRC (Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic of Congo). Launched on 15th December 2023, SAMIDRC is a regional peacekeeping mission operated by the Southern African Development Community formed to restore peace and security in the eastern regions of the country.
President Cyril Ramaphosa clarified the intent behind the deployment of the military, stating, “South Africa’s military presence in the eastern DRC is not a declaration of war against any country or state.” He also did not shy away from condemning the actions of the M23 rebels and their Rwandan allies, labeling them as a threat to peacekeepers.
This move did not mesh with Rwandan President Paul Kagame, and he harshly dismissed accusations of his country's involvement and views South Africa's military presence as an aggressive act. He accused South Africa of being part of a “belligerent force” involved in “offensive combat operations” to aid the Congolese government “fight against its own people”.
The situation on the ground is rife with danger and President Ramaphosa has emphasized on working hand in hand with SAMIDRC forces to maintain peace and unity. He has also assured that all necessary support is being provided to the families of both the deceased and injured soldiers. The repatriation process for the remains of the fallen soldiers is currently underway.
In this high-stakes game of geopolitics, South Africa and SAMIDRC must tread carefully, for the path to peace laden with lots of risk.
@kushconcertseries
