In a significant shift in its foreign military commitments, South Africa has announced the withdrawal of its troops from the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), ending a 27 year involvement in one of the world’s longest-running peacekeeping operations. The decision, communicated by President Cyril Ramaphosa to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres during a telephone conversation on January 12, 2026, is driven by the need to “consolidate and realign” the resources of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
The presidency’s statement, released late on February 8, emphasized that the pullout will be coordinated closely with the UN to ensure an orderly process, with the complete withdrawal expected before the end of 2026. South Africa currently has more than 700 soldiers deployed under MONUSCO, making it one of the top 10 troop contributors to the mission. This move comes amid ongoing challenges for the SANDF, including criticisms over poor conditions for deployed soldiers, such as shortages of provisions and medical care. “LARGE”
Background on South Africa’s Role in MONUSCO
South Africa’s engagement with UN peacekeeping in the DR Congo dates back to 1999, shortly after the end of apartheid and the country’s reintegration into international affairs. MONUSCO, established in 2010 as a successor to earlier UN missions, is tasked with protecting civilians, supporting the Congolese government in stabilizing the volatile eastern regions, and combating armed groups like the M23 rebels, Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), and others amid a complex web of ethnic conflicts, resource exploitation, and foreign influences.
Over the years, South African troops have played a key role in offensive operations, including the Force Intervention Brigade, which was authorized to take proactive measures against rebel groups – a departure from traditional peacekeeping norms. However, the mission has faced mounting criticism for its effectiveness, with ongoing violence displacing millions and exacerbating a humanitarian crisis in the mineral-rich eastern provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu. The DR Congo government itself has called for MONUSCO’s phased withdrawal, arguing that the mission has outlived its utility and that national forces should take full control.
South Africa’s decision aligns with broader regional dynamics. While MONUSCO’s mandate is set to end progressively, with some contingents already departing, Pretoria’s pullout is independent but complements these efforts. Notably, this withdrawal is separate from South Africa’s involvement in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission in the DR Congo (SAMIDRC), where SANDF troops continue to operate against M23 insurgents.
Reasons Behind the Withdrawal
The primary rationale cited by the South African government is resource realignment. Following a comprehensive review of its peacekeeping commitments, Pretoria aims to redirect SANDF assets toward domestic priorities, including border security, disaster response, and internal stability amid economic pressures. Defense experts have pointed to budget constraints and equipment shortages plaguing the SANDF, which has seen its capabilities strained by multiple deployments across Africa.
“The decision reflects a pragmatic assessment of our military’s capacity,” said Kingsley Makhubela, a former South African diplomat, in a recent interview. “After 27 years, it’s time to evaluate what more we can achieve and bring our troops home.” Critics, however, argue that the move could signal a retreat from South Africa’s leadership role in African peacekeeping, especially as the continent faces escalating conflicts.
Implications for the DR Congo and Regional Security
The withdrawal of South African forces, known for their combat experience and aviation support, could create a vacuum in MONUSCO’s operations, particularly in offensive actions against armed groups. With the M23 conflict intensifying – including recent clashes that have displaced over 100,000 people – analysts warn that the departure might embolden rebels and complicate the UN’s exit strategy.
On social media platform X, reactions have been mixed. One user noted, “That vacuum will be filled with foreign mercenaries… DRC back to square one,” highlighting concerns over increased reliance on private security or external actors. Others praised the move as a step toward Congolese sovereignty, urging the DR Congo government to strengthen its own forces.
For South Africa, the pullout allows a focus on internal challenges, but it may strain relations with regional partners who rely on Pretoria’s military heft. As the UN finalizes timelines, the international community will watch closely to ensure the transition does not exacerbate instability in a region already scarred by decades of war.
This development underscores the evolving nature of global peacekeeping, where contributing nations balance international obligations with national interests. South Africa’s legacy in the DR Congo remains one of dedication, but the chapter is closing as new priorities emerge.