SANDF’s fourth group home safe after DRC peace mission

Cape Town – The fourth group of South African soldiers has returned from the SADC peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, arriving at Bram Fischer International Airport in Bloemfontein.

They will begin demobilisation at Tempe Military Base.

#NDABANEWS: THE 4TH GROUP OF SANDF SOLDIERS HAS TOUCHED DOWN IN BLOEMFONTEIN

The soldiers are returning from Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, following South Africa’s withdrawal from the MONUSCO peacekeeping mission in the region.

This marks another step in the phased… pic.twitter.com/zKgCkL5f8u

— Thulani Ndaba (@tndaba) June 17, 2025

Their return follows a ceasefire between M23 rebels and the DRC military, with full withdrawal expected by June 25.

Fourteen South African soldiers were killed earlier this year during rebel advances.

Earlier, the SANDF said in a statement: “The SANDF announces the arrival of the fourth group of soldiers returning from the DRCC mission… with approximately 250 passengers on board.”

The SA National Defence Force Media Release || Tuesday, 17 June 2025 || SANDF troops to arrive home at Bram Fischer International Airport.

Media Release by Defence Corporate Communication.#SANDF#DCCMediaLiaison#JointOperationsDivision#DRC#WelcomeHomeSASoldiers pic.twitter.com/h7uggHfJ3o

— SA National Defence Force 🇿🇦 (@SANDF_ZA) June 17, 2025

It continued: “The phased return is part of the SANDF’s planned withdrawal from the area mission… Upon their return, the troops will undergo the standard demobilisation program, which includes health screenings, psychological support, and reunification.”