SANDF confirms smooth start to troop withdrawal from DRC to Tanzania

THE SOUTH African National Defence Force (SANDF) has confirmed that the withdrawal of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) contingent from the DRC is under way. 

The SANDF will be removing soldiers from Goma to Chato, Tanzania. 

In a statement released late on Sunday, the SANDF said everything is going according to plan as previously communicated to the Department of Defence. 

The logistical arrangements for the withdrawal remain under the full co-ordination and control of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

“We further assure the public that all SANDF members deployed as part of this mission are safe, adequately supplied for and continue to receive their daily meals and essentials. No member is stranded or without support,” it said. 

The SANDF has appealed to the public and members of the media to exercise discernment and patience during this sensitive withdrawal phase. 

“Inaccurate or speculative reporting may cause unnecessary concern and mislead the nation. The SANDF remains committed to transparency and will continue to provide updates as the withdrawal progresses,” it said. 

The movement of personnel and logistics began on April 29, 2025, with the departure of the first group from eastern DRC via road through Rwanda to Tanzania.

The rest of the personnel are scheduled to withdraw throughout May 2025, primarily by road to Tanzania, with additional movement by air and sea. 

Most logistical equipment will be transported by sea from Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, to South Africa.