SANDF soldiers return home after successful Goma mission

THE chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation, Supra Mahumapelo, has commended the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers for their successful deployment in Goma as part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC).

The troops have now safely returned home, marking the end of a critical mission that sought to stabilise one of Africa’s most volatile regions.

Speaking at a press briefing held in Parliament on Friday, Mahumapelo expressed pride in the ambassadorial role played by the SANDF during their deployment. “South Africans should remain proud of the ambassadorial role the South African army has played despite the challenges it experienced during deployment at this specific Goma mission,” he said.

The SANDF was deployed to Goma in December 2023 to assist the Congolese government in addressing escalating violence in the conflict-ridden eastern region, where the M23 rebel group had been rapidly gaining ground. This intervention formed part of SAMIDRC’s broader efforts to restore stability and peace in the area.

Mahumapelo highlighted the importance of collaboration among African nations in tackling shared challenges. “We proved once more that international cooperation is the way to resolve the challenges that we are encountering as the Continent,” he stated emphatically. “Cooperation and good relations with our African brothers is even more necessary if we are to have a brighter future that we could all share.”

Acknowledging the collective effort behind the mission’s success, Mahumapelo extended his gratitude not only to the SANDF but also to other countries, organisations, and stakeholders involved. “I applaud and salute all the countries for the progressive roles they played that translated into peace,” he said. He also praised the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN) for ensuring the safe return of the soldiers who participated in the SAMIDRC.

Looking ahead, Mahumapelo voiced optimism about strengthening Africa’s capacity to maintain peace independently. “It is our hope that the AU’s standby force will soon become adequately resourced and equipped to ensure the existence of peace across the African Continent,” he said.

He concluded by expressing heartfelt appreciation for the bravery and dedication of the SANDF soldiers, whose actions embodied South Africa’s commitment to building a better Africa and a better world. “We are proud of our soldiers and salute them for ensuring the implementation of efforts to build a Better Africa and a Better World,” he said.

The return of the SANDF contingent underscores the importance of regional cooperation in addressing complex security challenges. As South Africa reflects on the achievements of its armed forces in Goma, the call for continued investment in peacekeeping capabilities resonates louder than ever.

For now, the nation celebrates the safe homecoming of its heroes while reaffirming its commitment to fostering peace and stability across the continent.