As published by Nomazulu Moyo in African Times
Families across South Africa are eagerly awaiting the return of their husbands and sons who have been serving in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as part of the Southern African Development Community Mission (SAMIDRC).
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The South Africa National Defence Force (SANDF) is currently in the process of phasing back its soldiers after months of service in the conflict-stricken DRC.
On Friday, 13 June 2025, the first batch of 249 soldiers landed at Air Force Base Waterkloof in Pretoria. From Waterkloof, the soldiers were transported by bus to Bloemfontein’s Tempe Military Base, where they will undergo health screenings, psychological support and reunification services. Today, Sunday, 15 June 2025, the second batch of 257 soldiers also arrived at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria.
This return comes after logistical delays kept the soldiers in the DRC longer than expected. Defence Minister Angie Motshekga described their return as a proud moment for the country. “Seeing our soldiers in good spirits and genuinely excited to be home not only speaks volumes of their unwavering patriotism but also a powerful expression of their steadfast commitment to defending South Africa and its people.”
Some families are still waiting for their husbands and sons, who will be in subsequent groups expected back soon.
Zanele Ncongwane, whose husband has been gone for 15 months, described the painful wait. “It has been the hardest 15 months of my life. It got worse when war got bad and soldiers were injured and some died. My anxiety was on another level. Some days we couldn’t even reach them on their phones. We kept on praying for better days. At this moment I’m so overwhelmed. I have mixed emotions because it has been too long. Definitely excited to have my pillar back home. I’ve started with preparations to welcome him.”
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For Poppy Mahlaba, whose son went to the DRC in April, 2024, the return brings deep relief and peace of mind. When asked how she felt when she heard 14 soldiers died in the DRC, Poppy described it as a heartbreaking experience.
“It was a heartbreaking experience. So you can imagine the horror and how destitute we felt. To hear that they are soon coming home serves as a reminder how fragile life is. Each moment should be treated with the utmost respect. This homecoming means a lot. Finally, our prayers of safe return are answered. It settles one thing in our heart — you can prepare the horse for battle, but victory is of the Lord. Our focus now is having our son home and enjoying our time with him. Until the next mission.”
The soldiers’ return signals a move toward diplomatic solutions in the region and highlights South Africa’s ongoing peacekeeping role in Africa.
This article has been published in partnership with the African Times.
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