SANDF soldiers in DRC forced to buy own equipment, generals slammed by parliament

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) deployment in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has come under intense scrutiny in Parliament, where it was revealed that soldiers are facing critical equipment shortages, including a lack of bulletproof vests and having to purchase their own boots and bedframes.

Equipment Crisis and Financial Strain
The Joint Standing Committee on Defence today received a report from the SANDF detailing the state of preparedness for future peacekeeping deployments in the DRC. However, the report brought to light alarming deficits in soldier welfare and provisioning.

Committee Co-Chairperson Malusi Gigaba outlined the extent of the challenges facing the South African soldiers:

"From what we understand, our soldiers had to buy their own boots, travelled without bulletproof vests, which only arrived when they were already there. They had to buy their own bedframes and their own tents."

Adding to the logistical issues, the Defence Force also informed Members that the strength of the South African battalionin the DRC has been greatly reduced due to funding challenges faced by the United Nations peacekeeping missions globally.

Generals Slammed for Lack of Preparation
The meeting was marked by strong criticism directed at the army generals for their perceived failure to adequately prepare for the parliamentary engagement.

Members of the committee, along with Deputy Minister Bantu Holomisa, severely criticised the generals for their lack of preparedness.

Deputy Minister Holomisa also issued a stern warning to the army generals, condemning them for sidelining him by failing to send him thepresentation about the DRC deployment ahead of today's meeting.

Call for Follow-up Meeting
To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the peacekeeping deployment, the Joint Committee has formally requested a follow-up meeting. They have specifically asked that Minister Angie Motshekga be present to provide further details and clarity on the matter.