JOHANNESBURG — The second phase of withdrawing South African National Defence Force (SANDF) troops from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has begun, following directives from the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

The withdrawal process started on Tuesday, with the SANDF confirming it had commenced the phased withdrawal of personnel and equipment from eastern DRC as part of the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC).

The withdrawal follows a decision made by SADC heads of state in March, when the regional bloc terminated the mandate of SAMIDRC and ordered the commencement of a phased withdrawal of troops.

National Chief of Defence Rudzani Maphwanya said Sunday that all equipment would be transported back to South Africa via air and land routes. The operation is expected to be completed by the end of May.

“What is important is that this movement had already started on the 29th, where we have started with 13 trucks; that is now the advanced team with 57 members that are currently at the assembly area,” Maphwanya said.

A reconnaissance mission including representatives from Malawi, South Africa, Tanzania and the SADC secretariat was conducted in mid-April to assess and confirm the withdrawal route from Goma through Rwanda to Chato in Tanzania.

In late March, SADC reached an agreement with M23 rebels to facilitate the safe withdrawal of SAMIDRC troops and equipment from Goma.  This agreement came after SADC forces had been confined to their bases during intense fighting.

SAMIDRC was deployed to eastern DRC in December 2023 to help the Congolese government restore peace and security amid attacks by armed groups, particularly the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels.

The mission faced significant challenges, including the deaths of 14 South African soldiers and several Malawian troops during intense fighting with M23 rebels in January 2025.

According to defense analysts, SAMIDRC struggled to fulfill its mandate due to logistical challenges and faced a formidable opponent in the M23, which has transformed into a well-coordinated force with advanced military technology.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has emphasized that the withdrawal should not be seen as a defeat but rather as a confidence-building measure to ensure peace and stability in eastern DRC.

The SANDF has promised to provide regular updates regarding the safe return of South African soldiers as the withdrawal continues through May.