South African troops start withdrawal from rebel-held eastern Congo
- The South African armed forces have started withdrawing their peacekeeping troops from eastern Congo.
- Withdrawal follows the escalation of conflict leading to fatalities among peacekeeping forces.
- Negotiations are ongoing between Congo and Rwanda to achieve a peace agreement.
In late January 2025, significant tensions arose in eastern Congo as M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, launched an offensive that captured the strategic city of Goma. This led to the involvement of southern African countries, including South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania, which contributed troops to a regional peacekeeping force. However, the situation worsened, resulting in the fatalities of fourteen South African and three Malawian soldiers due to clashes with the M23. By March 2025, the southern African regional body took a decisive step to conclude this peacekeeping mission prematurely, prompting the withdrawal of troops. On Thursday, May 1, 2025, the South African National Defense Force announced that their peacekeeping troops had officially begun the withdrawal process from rebel-controlled areas of eastern Congo. The troops initiated their departure earlier in the week, with plans to pass through neighboring Rwanda on their way to Tanzania before flying back to South Africa. Alongside South African troops, forces from Malawi and Tanzania have also initiated their withdrawal due to the escalating conflict and the precarious situation on the ground. Concurrently, the International Committee of the Red Cross has reported on the transfer of Congolese government soldiers and police officers from Goma to the capital, Kinshasa, suggesting a broader movement and potential evacuation occurring amidst the chaos. The safe passage for the peacekeepers, along with their equipment, is being facilitated by the Rwandan government, indicating regional collaboration despite the ongoing tensions. The M23 group continues to exert control over Goma and another significant city, highlighting the ongoing complexity of the conflict in eastern Congo. Talks mediated by Qatar and supported by the United States between Congo and Rwanda are taking place, with both parties expressing a commitment to working towards a peace agreement, but the instability remains a profound challenge for the region. This situation reflects the adverse effects of external influence in local conflicts and underscores the fragility of peacekeeping operations in areas engulfed in turmoil.