The first batch of the 127 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members deployed under the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) returned back home yesterday (4/11). Their arrival at Bram Fischer International Airport in Bloemfontein, is the beginning of their phased return following the conclusion of the MONUSCO mission.
According to a statement issued by the SANDF, the group forms part of a 315 member contingent that will be returning to South Africa in phases between 4 and 6 November 2025.
“After their arrival, members proceeded to the Department of Defence Mobilisation Centre at De Brug near Bloemfontein, where they will undergo a three day demobilisation process.”
There the members will undergo debriefing sessions, administrative processing, spiritual, psychological and reintegration. This will assist them in transitioning back to their home environment after months of operational deployment.
“The SA National Defence Force has played an active role within the Force Intervention Brigade, a United Nations formation mandated to neutralize armed groups and restore peace in the eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Working alongside troops from Tanzania and Malawi, South African soldiers have contributed to stabilisation efforts that brought relative calm to affected communities.”
Compiled by Gypseenia Lion
