Defence Minister Angie Motshekga is in the DRC addressing worsening security due to M23 rebels’ territorial gains. The UN highlights significant displacement and ongoing clashes involving armed groups. Motshekga’s visit focuses on supporting South African troops and enhancing bilateral cooperation for peace and stability.
Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga is visiting the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amidst reports of worsening security conditions from the United Nations (UN). During a briefing, UN Deputy Spokesman Farhan Haq indicated that M23 rebels have expanded their control in North Kivu, recently capturing Minova, a key supply hub for Goma.
Ongoing conflicts involve heavy clashes among the M23, the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC), and various armed factions. This violence has resulted in significant casualties, with recent fighting in Bweremana leading to at least ten deaths and increased displacement towards South Kivu and Goma, posing threats to vulnerable populations in refugee areas.
The M23 has caused displacement of over 250,000 individuals following their recent territorial gains in South Kivu. The withdrawal of MONUSCO peacekeepers in June 2024 has resulted in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission being the only permanent peacekeeping presence, highlighting the challenging security landscape.
Minister Motshekga’s visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations between South Africa and the DRC, aligning with the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Defence Cooperation. Her agenda includes assessing the operational conditions and welfare of South African National Defence Force personnel currently deployed in the region, as well as reinforcing South Africa’s commitment to promoting regional stability.
The South African Department of Defence emphasized the minister’s commitment to peacekeeping initiatives, also acknowledging the sacrifices of South African troops in the DRC, including fatalities from combat and other causes last year. Minister Motshekga departed for the DRC on January 22 and is scheduled to return on January 25.
The security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly in its eastern regions, has become increasingly volatile as armed groups, most notably the M23 rebels, continue to seize territory. The UN has noted alarming humanitarian impacts, including massive displacements of civilians, as local armed conflicts escalate. Following the withdrawal of several UN peacekeeping forces, South Africa plays a crucial role in maintaining stability in collaboration with regional missions, such as SAMIDRC.
In conclusion, Minister Motshekga’s visit to the DRC underscores the serious security challenges in the region due to escalating violence from the M23 rebels and the consequent humanitarian crisis. By strengthening bilateral relations and assessing military conditions, South Africa reaffirms its dedication to peacekeeping efforts in Africa, especially in light of recent losses among its armed forces and the ongoing need for stability in the DRC.
Original Source: www.defenceweb.co.za
