South Africa has announced that it will withdraw all of its troops deployed as part of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) by the end of 2026. The decision was communicated by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, marking the end of nearly three decades of South Africa’s involvement in peacekeeping operations in the DRC.
South Africa has been engaged in peacekeeping efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo for approximately 27 years and is among the countries that have made a significant contribution to MONUSCO in terms of personnel and operational support. Currently, around 700 South African soldiers are deployed within the mission, which includes more than 11,000 peacekeepers from various countries. Established in 1999, MONUSCO’s mandate focuses on protecting civilians, supporting Congolese state institutions, and helping stabilize conflict-affected areas, particularly in the eastern part of the country.
According to South African authorities, the withdrawal forms part of a broader strategic reassessment of the country’s military commitments abroad. The government in Pretoria aims to better align its defense resources while ensuring a gradual and coordinated withdrawal in close cooperation with the United Nations, so as to minimize security risks on the ground. Officials stressed that this decision does not represent a political or diplomatic disengagement from the DRC, but rather an adjustment in the form of South Africa’s contribution to regional peace.
Despite the planned troop withdrawal, South Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to peace, stability, and multilateral cooperation in the Great Lakes region. The country intends to continue supporting the Democratic Republic of Congo through diplomatic channels and regional organizations such as the African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The United Nations has expressed its appreciation for South Africa’s long-standing commitment and paid tribute to the peacekeepers who served under the UN flag, including those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
The announcement comes at a time when the security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo remains fragile, with ongoing violence involving armed groups despite regional and international mediation efforts. The gradual withdrawal of South African troops raises questions about the future role of MONUSCO and the capacity of Congolese security forces to ensure lasting protection for civilians in affected areas.
