Defence Committee welcomes SANDF’s safe DRC withdrawal and backs extended maritime security mission to protect regional stability and trade.
Image: File picture
The Joint Standing Committee on Defence has welcomed the South African National Defence Force’s (SANDF) ongoing withdrawal from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), citing assurances from senior commanders that the process is steady and secure.
The committee also backed continued support for regional peacekeeping efforts and the extension of Operation Copper.
Co-Chairperson of the Committee Malusi Gigaba, said the arrival of two convoys at a transit camp marked progress in the safe repatriation of forces and equipment.
“The assurance that all measures have been put in place to ensure that the movement and withdrawal of both personnel and equipment will be done safely and securely and the arrival of the two convoys at the transit camp is a testament to the effective planning that has taken place,” he said.
The committee noted that prime mission equipment would be transported by sea and highlighted the importance of ensuring its security, especially since private contractors will be involved. It also expects a full exit report upon the mission’s conclusion, including financial details.
“We are cognisant that some of the details around the mission could not be discussed, as it has the potential to endanger the forces still in the deployment area. But concerning cost, the committee highlighted that when the total breakdown is tabled, the committee takes into consideration the cost-benefit analysis of the deployment,” Gigaba said.
The committee emphasised the importance of continuing support for elements of the SADC mission that remain in the DRC under the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission.
“The committee acknowledges that South Africa’s efforts to establish peace and security in Africa continue to be a crucial element of the country’s foreign policy, as guided by the objectives of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 framework.
''To advance this role played by the SANDF in peacekeeping missions, adequate support must always be provided,'' said Co-Chairperson Phiroane Phala.
Reinforcing its position on diplomacy, Phala added, “The commitment to diplomatic engagement aimed at finding lasting solutions to the conflict is welcomed, as it is only through genuine engagement that solutions will be found. The people of the DRC and the region in general deserve a peaceful and secure environment conducive to unlocking the socio-economic potential of the area.”
Moreover, the committee expressed full support for the extension of the deployment of 200 SANDF members under Operation Copper, which focuses on maritime security in the northern Mozambique Channel. The extension was detailed in a letter from the President to Parliament dated April 2.
“The mission aims to counter the threat of piracy and other illicit maritime activities along the northern Mozambique Channel have been successful, hence the decrease in piracy activities.
''It is essential that this crucial intervention is maintained to enable trade, which will lead to economic growth and improved standard of living for the people of the region,”
hope.ntanzi@iol.co.za
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