Six months after returning from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldier expresses deep concern over potential long-term post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), citing a mission plagued by inadequate preparation, equipment shortages, and strategic failures.
SAMIDRC Deployment Marked by Systemic Failures
In late 2023, soldiers from 2 South African Infantry Battalion (2 SAI) were deployed to the DRC as part of Operation Thiba, South Africa’s contribution to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission in the DRC. The mission, framed as “peace enforcement” rather than peacekeeping, quickly revealed critical shortcomings. Despite initial training at the Combat Training Centre (CTC) in the Northern Cape, soldiers faced shortages of essential gear, including uniforms, boots, sniper weapons, and even basic necessities like passports and tents.
Upon arrival in February 2024, the first deployments lacked flak jackets, steel helmets, and weapons – deficiencies that continued with subsequent groups. The situation deteriorated rapidly. On February 14th, a missile strike killed the recce commander and driver at the Sake base, fueling anger and a desire for retribution among the troops.
A Chaotic Battlefield and Logistical Breakdown
The journey to Sake, arriving on March 22nd, 2024, was marked by immediate danger, with mortar fire erupting near the Mugunga internally displaced persons (IDP) camp. The base itself was described as chaotic and resembling a “squatter camp,” lacking proper planning despite assigned personnel responsible for its organization. Soldiers were forced to purchase their own essential equipment – boots costing between R800 and R1,900, tents between R2,500 and R6,000 – with no promise of reimbursement.
The SANDF’s equipment lagged behind that of its allies, Malawi and Tanzania, and its weapons lacked crucial night-vision capabilities. Communication was hampered by easily jammed Kenwood radios, as experienced during an ambush on May 30th in Kimoka. Reconnaissance platoons, deemed vital for threat detection, were under-equipped, lacking pistols and snipers.
Betrayal, Hostage Situations, and Neglect
The mission was further complicated by the unreliability of the Forces Armées de la République Démocratique du Congo (FARDC), the DRC’s military, with reports of collaboration with the M23 rebel group, internal conflict, and desertion. During a four-day clash with the M23 beginning on January 23rd, 2025, fourteen SANDF soldiers were killed, and troops were effectively held hostage, receiving only one meal per day. Despite SADC food funds reaching the SANDF, they did not reach the soldiers on the ground.
Following a ceasefire agreement on January 27th, 2025, a false narrative emerged at Goma claiming the SANDF had surrendered after suffering losses. Upon returning to South Africa, soldiers received only a 30-minute counselling session, and as of this account, no medal parade has been held to recognize their service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary mandate of the SAMIDRC mission?
The contingent commander emphasized that Operation Thiba was a mission of “peace enforcement,” not peacekeeping, and prepared soldiers for combat.
What were some of the specific equipment shortages faced by SANDF soldiers?
Soldiers reported shortages in uniforms, boots, sniper weapons, 60 mm patrol mortars, passports, tents, and recce-specific gear. They were often forced to purchase these items themselves.
What happened at the Sake base on February 14th, 2024?
A missile struck the Sake base after lunch on February 14th, 2024, resulting in the deaths of the recce commander and driver.
Given the documented failures in preparation, equipment, and support, what steps might be necessary to ensure the wellbeing of soldiers deployed on future missions?
