South Africa’s controversial troop deployment to DRC sparks debate

Ramaphosa argues the deployment aligns with Southern African Development Community (SADC) defense commitments to combat armed groups in the DRC, emphasizing such missions are prone to casualties.

Conversely, Malema criticizes the move, citing the South African military’s alleged lack of readiness and proper equipment, suggesting the African National Congress (ANC) has weakened the nation’s armed forces.

He also points to soldiers’ complaints about insufficient provisions, questioning the effectiveness of a hungry army in combat.

This military engagement, costing two billion rands, is a substantial financial and human investment, highlighting deep divisions within South African society and its political landscape over international military interventions.