3rd batch of SANDF members deployed to DRC set to return home
The troops' return is part of a planned withdrawal from the mission in Goma, after the M23 and DRC military reached a ceasefire agreement.
SANDF army defence force soldiers
JOHANNESBURG - The third batch of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members who were deployed in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for a peacekeeping mission are returning home on Monday and are set to land at the Bram Fischer Airport in Bloemfontein.
The troops' return is part of a planned withdrawal from the mission in Goma, after the M23 and DRC military reached a ceasefire agreement.
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The members form part of a larger group of more than 2,000 members, who were initially deployed in 2023.
The 220 are scheduled to land at 3 pm, where they will undergo health checks, then go on a leave period of up to two months.
The previous groups landed at the Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria last Friday.
“The issue of the staircase was the major issue, which then forced Air Tanzania to land at Waterkloof base. Last night, the staircase was moved to Bloemfontein, which made it easier to access,” said SANDF spokesperson Prince Tshabalala.