South African Defence Minister Angie Motshekga visited the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to address the ongoing conflict and dispel rumors of supply shortages within the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
South African Defence Minister Angie Motshekga has refuted claims that troops deployed in the Democratic Republic of Congo ( DRC ) are facing shortages of supplies amidst the escalating conflict.
Addressing the media alongside her deputy, Bantu Holomisa, and International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola, Motshekga provided updates on the situation in eastern DRC, exacerbated by intensified clashes between M23 rebels and Rwandan Defence Force (RDF) militia against the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC).The minister's statement came following a mortar bomb attack by M23 rebels near the airport in Goma, where the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has established a military base. The attack resulted in the deaths of three soldiers. Motshekga emphasized that the SANDF's priority was the immediate extraction of injured personnel and the deceased. She stated that the SANDF maintains constant communication with the UN and the DRC authorities, receiving regular updates on the evolving situation. Motshekga reiterated calls for a ceasefire and emphasized that peaceful negotiations are the only viable solution to the conflict. Addressing a viral video showing SANDF soldiers waving a white flag, which sparked speculation about a potential surrender, Motshekga explained that the action was taken to de-escalate the situation and avoid being drawn into the conflict between the DRC forces and Rwandan forces. She asserted that there have been no attacks on SANDF bases in the past 48 hours and that discussions are ongoing with Angola and Rwanda to address the situation. Motshekga also dismissed allegations of supply shortages, stating that she personally received briefings from generals in Goma who assured her of adequate ammunition and food supplies. Deputy Minister Holomisa acknowledged the challenges faced by the SANDF, attributing them to reduced funding, highlighting the difficulties in maintaining crucial assets like helicopters. He also criticized the lack of support from allied troops during the recent attacks, stating that the troops of Congo and Burundi had pulled back, leaving the South African contingent vulnerable. Despite the challenges, Holomisa commended the SANDF's response to the attacks, emphasizing their swift and effective actions
SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL DEFENCE FORCE DRC CONFLICT ANGOLA RWANDA CEASEFIRE SUPPLIES M23 REBELS
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