Professor Thomas Mandrup, an associate professor at Stellenbosch University and the Royal Danish Defence College, criticized the mission, arguing that it was ill-advised due to insufficient resources and poor planning.
SANDF deployed soldiers to the eastern DRC as part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission which comprises nearly 3,000 troops. The mandate was extended for another year in November 2024.
The operation saw South African forces supporting the Congolese army and allied militia groups in confronting the M23 rebel group, which had been attempting to capture the city of Goma.
At least 14 SANDF soldiers lost their lives in fierce fighting in and around Goma, as well as in the battle for control over the town of Sake in late January.
Professor Mandrup explained that the mission's offensive nature was a critical misstep. The SANDF was given a mandate to neutralize rebel groups, particularly M23, and was expected to carry out offensive operations.
However, according to Mandrup, the SANDF was not adequately equipped for such a task, nor were they fully prepared for the complexities of the situation on the ground.
'The South African Defence Force is underfunded and has been for years,' said Mandrup. 'The necessary renewal of equipment and operational readiness has not taken place, leaving the SANDF with outdated tools for an operation of this scale.'
He added that while certain elite units within the SANDF, such as the special forces, maintain international reputations for excellence, the broader force faces significant challenges, including personnel shortages and a lack of adequate training and equipment.
Furthermore, Mandrup noted that warnings from military analysts, academics, and professionals were ignored before the deployment.
'The political level failed to address these warnings, deploying soldiers without the necessary means to carry out their mandate effectively,' he added.
South Africa's Minister for Defence, Angie Motshekga, was on Tuesday at pains to explain to members of parliament in the Joint Standing Committee on Defence the decision to deploy forces without essential support like air cover and offensive tools.
The MPs rejected Minister Motshekga's explanation that South African soldiers were sent to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to restore peace in the eastern region. The MPs argued that the true nature of the mission was unclear, with some asserting that the troops should be brought home immediately.
The Minister's comments raised more questions about the decision-making process, with Mandrup asking whether the risks were properly assessed and whether the SANDF Chief was given adequate resources to ensure success.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
