South Africa to Withdraw Peacekeepers from DR Congo Mission

South Africa is set to withdraw its contingent of peacekeepers from the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), marking an end to nearly three decades of involvement.

President Cyril Ramaphosa communicated this decision to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on January 12, according to an official statement. The withdrawal is attributed to the necessity of consolidating and reallocating resources within the South African National Defence Force after 27 years of supporting UN peacekeeping operations in the DRC.

South Africa has been a significant contributor, ranking among the top ten nations providing troops to MONUSCO, with its deployment exceeding 700 soldiers.

In response, MONUSCO conveyed its profound appreciation to South Africa for its sustained commitment and the dedicated service of its peacekeepers in fulfilling the mission's mandate. The UN mission stated it anticipates ongoing engagement with South Africa on broader peacekeeping matters, including the valuable lessons learned and continued support for peace and stability efforts.

MONUSCO also indicated it would collaborate closely with the UN Secretariat and other relevant parties to ensure the troop withdrawal is managed safely, systematically, and responsibly, adhering to UN standards and operational requirements.

The UN Secretary-General, through his spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, acknowledged South Africa's long-standing dedication and sacrifices. He expressed his thanks for the country's continuous support.

MONUSCO has been operational in the DRC since July 2010, succeeding a prior UN peacekeeping operation that oversaw the implementation of a ceasefire agreement following regional conflicts that emerged after the 1994 genocide in neighbouring Rwanda. The mission's responsibilities include protecting civilians and assisting the DRC in achieving peace and stability.

As of October 2025, MONUSCO comprised over 12,400 personnel, including approximately 9,177 troops and 926 police officers from more than 50 countries. The mission has recorded 304 fatalities since its establishment.

The UN mission paid tribute to South African peacekeepers who lost their lives while serving under the UN flag in the DRC, honouring their ultimate sacrifice.

Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the head of UN Peace Operations, is currently in the DRC for discussions on the mission's mandate implementation and support for a ceasefire. He is scheduled to meet with Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka, among other officials. Following his visit to the DRC, Mr. Lacroix will travel to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for the annual African Union summit.