South Africa withdraws peacekeepers from eastern Congo

South African armed forces officials have confirmed that they have begun the process of withdrawing peacekeepers from eastern Congo, which is under rebel control according to a statement released by the armed forces on May 1.

As reported by the Associated Press, South African peacekeeping forces began to move out of the region earlier in the week, traveling a safe route through Rwanda and then to Tanzania, where they are due to fly home.

In addition to South African soldiers, peacekeepers from both Malawi and Tanzania have begun withdrawing from eastern Congo.

The decision for all three countries to pull out their combined peacekeeping force follows a recent surge in activity by the country’s M23 rebel group.

As previously reported by Maghrebi, the M23 rebels have made significant territorial gains in recent months, including the capture of the key cities of Goma and Bukavu. 

These military advances by the M23 group – which is reportedly backed by the Rwandan government and armed forces – have left them in near-complete control of eastern Congo, rendering most peacekeeping forces in the region unable to move safely from their positions 

There have also been a number of clashes between the peacekeepers and M23 rebels, including an incident in January in which fourteen South African troops and three Malawian soldiers were killed.

Due to these escalating dangers and the rapidly deteriorating situation in the country, the decision was made to withdraw the peacekeeping forces.

Despite concerns for the safety of the withdrawing troops, several assurances have been provided, including from the Rwandan government.

Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Ngduhungirehe stated on social media that his country would “provide safe passage and an escort for the peacekeepers and their equipment”.

The withdrawal comes amid ongoing talks between Congo and Rwanda, who are negotiating on behalf of the M23 rebels.

Associated Press, Maghrebi