SA loses influence in Africa by withdrawing DRC troops, warns defence analyst

Concerns have been raised over the government’s decision to withdraw troops from the United Nations (UN) mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). 

Defence analyst Helmoed Heitman suggested that the government’s decision might be influenced by the need to consolidate and realign resources for the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).

South Africa has been contributing its soldiers to the UN mission in the DRC since 1999.

RELATED: South Africa to withdraw troops from DRC peacekeeping mission by year-end

Heitman added that, while the mission did not achieve its intended purpose, there is a potential loss of influence and training opportunities for South African soldiers. 

“The downside of that is we are going to lose standing and influence in Africa. We are not going to be involved in any peace or stabilisation missions in Africa, but we want to be a leading voice, which is not going to work,” he said. 

He added that the focus should be on rebuilding its core capabilities, such as air lift, naval power, and border patrol, before considering a regional role again.

“We need to get a navy up and going. We have too few ships, and they aren’t all operational. We have too few helicopters and no surveillance or patrol aircraft. That should be the focus,” said Heitman. 

To listen to Heitman in conversation with 702 and CapeTalk’s Africa Melane, use the audio player below: