The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and its regional partners are said to have successfully repelled an M23 rebel group’s attempt to advance toward Goma, the provincial capital in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), after two days of intense fighting. According to a statement from the SANDF, the M23 forces launched a full-scale assault with the apparent aim of capturing Goma, but their progress was reportedly halted by the South African contingent and its allies.
The SANDF spokesperson described the resistance as “heroic,” claiming that South African forces not only stopped the rebels but also pushed them back from their intended position near the city. “Our troops faced an aggressive offensive and were able to prevent the rebels from entering Goma,” the spokesperson said in the release.
The South African contingent is part of a broader regional mission under the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in the DRC, deployed since December 2023 to help stabilize the eastern region, which has been plagued by ongoing conflicts with various armed groups, including M23.
The statement also noted that nine South African soldiers lost their lives during the clashes, with seven reportedly being part of the SANDF contingent and two said to have been members of the United Nations peacekeeping force, MONUSCO. Several others were reportedly injured, though the extent of their injuries has not been confirmed.
In response, South Africa’s Ministry of Defence expressed condolences for the loss of the soldiers. “We mourn the loss of our brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms. Angie Motshekga. “Our thoughts are with their families during this difficult time.”
The process of notifying the families of the deceased is reportedly underway, with further details on the situation expected to be released as additional information becomes available.
