Critically injured South African peacekeepers have been urgently evacuated from eastern Congo amid escalating violence by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. The United Nations facilitated the evacuation of wounded soldiers receiving treatment in rebel-held Goma, though South African authorities declined to specify exact casualty figures.
The evacuation comes as M23 forces consolidate control over strategic cities in Congo's mineral-rich east. UN experts confirm the rebel group now commands 4,000 Rwandan troops and controls Goma and Bukavu. Congolese officials report nearly 7,000 deaths during the offensive that began with January's capture of Goma.
Over 100 injured personnel required extraction, including three emergency cases and two pregnant soldiers,revealed Pikkie Greef of the South African National Defense Union.
This crisis intensifies scrutiny of South Africa's peacekeeping role after 14 soldiers died in January clashes. Military analysts question:
- Equipment adequacy for frontline troops
- Disciplinary issues reported in 2023 UN audits
- Coordination challenges within the Southern African Development Community mission
The controversial withdrawal of MONUSCO peacekeepers has been paused as regional forces struggle to contain violence. Malawi recently lost three soldiers in combat, with President Chakwera considering full troop withdrawal.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa faces mounting pressure to justify continued deployment amid rising casualties. Defense Minister Thandi Modise maintains the mission stabilizes critical cobalt and copper mining regions, though opposition parties demand parliamentary review of military commitments.
