What's happened
The UN is preparing to withdraw South African troops from the DRC's MONUSCO mission by the end of 2026, following President Ramaphosa's decision to realign military resources after 27 years of support. Recent developments include ongoing negotiations, a planned ceasefire monitoring mechanism, and the return of UN personnel to Goma amid renewed conflict concerns.
What's behind the headline?
The UN's withdrawal of South African troops from the DRC marks a pivotal shift in peacekeeping strategy. While the move reflects South Africa's resource reallocation, it risks creating a security vacuum in a region still plagued by rebel activity. The recent activation of a ceasefire monitoring mechanism, mediated by Qatar, indicates a diplomatic effort to stabilize the situation. However, the success of this framework depends heavily on security guarantees and regional cooperation. The UN's cautious approach—rolling out support only once safety is assured—suggests a recognition of ongoing instability. This transition could influence future peacekeeping models, emphasizing local and regional solutions over long-term international military presence. For the DRC, the withdrawal underscores the importance of sustained political engagement and regional stability efforts to prevent resurgence of violence.
What the papers say
Reuters reports on the UN's plans for aerial reconnaissance and the ongoing ceasefire negotiations, highlighting the cautious approach to troop withdrawal and the importance of security guarantees. All Africa details South Africa's decision to withdraw, citing resource realignment after decades of support, and emphasizes the country's ongoing diplomatic ties with the DRC. The contrasting perspectives reveal a balance between acknowledging South Africa's historic contribution and concerns over regional stability post-withdrawal, with Reuters focusing on operational details and All Africa on political motivations and future cooperation.
How we got here
South Africa has contributed over 700 troops to MONUSCO since 1999, supporting peace efforts in the DRC's eastern regions. The decision to withdraw follows a long-standing commitment, driven by the need to consolidate military resources. The UN has acknowledged South Africa's significant role and is coordinating a responsible exit, amid ongoing conflict and peace negotiations in the region.
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Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa is a South African politician and the fifth and current President of South Africa. Previously an anti-apartheid activist, trade union leader and businessman, Ramaphosa served as the Deputy President of South Africa from 2014 to 20
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The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization that aims to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, achieve international cooperation, and be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations.
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The Democratic Republic of the Congo, also known as Congo-Kinshasa, Zaire, DR Congo, DRC, the DROC, or simply the Congo, is a country located in Central Africa. It was formerly called Zaire.
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South Africa, officially the Republic of South Africa, is the southernmost country in Africa. With over 59 million people, it is the world's 24th-most populous nation and covers an area of 1,221,037 square kilometres.