South Africa to withdraw troops from UN peacekeeping mission in Congo by end of 2026

• President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the decision to withdraw South African forces from the UN mission in DRC.
• Over 700 South African soldiers have served in Congo as part of a 27-year commitment.
• Withdrawal will be coordinated with the UN, while bilateral and multilateral support continues.

South Africa will pull its troops from the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office confirmed on Saturday. Ramaphosa informed UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres of the decision, citing the need to “realign” the resources of South Africa’s armed forces.

The move marks the end of 27 years during which South African soldiers have supported UN efforts to stabilize Congo’s eastern regions, a conflict zone long plagued by rebel activity. Currently, over 700 South African personnel are deployed under the UN mission, which totals nearly 11,000 troops and police.

Peacekeeping mission amid renewed rebel activity

The UN mission in Congo, established to counter multiple rebel groups, has faced renewed challenges following recent escalations in the east, including the advance of M23 rebels near Goma. Despite the volatility, South Africa intends to ensure a responsible withdrawal by coordinating closely with UN authorities.

“South Africa will work jointly with the UN to finalise the timelines and other modalities of the withdrawal, which will be completed before the end of 2026,” the statement added.

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Continued diplomatic and multilateral engagement

Ramaphosa’s office emphasised that the withdrawal does not signal a reduction in South Africa’s commitment to peace in Congo. The country will continue to maintain strong bilateral relations with the Congolese government and support other multilateral initiatives aimed at bringing lasting stability to the region.