South African National Defence Force (SANDF) troops stationed in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), are reportedly struggling with harsh conditions, including limited food and a lack of communication services. Due to disrupted communication lines, the soldiers are currently unable to access internet or phone services, and are surviving on only one meal per day.
A senior SANDF official informed IOL that while the troops are not completely out of danger, the situation has stabilized following the tragic deaths of 13 peacekeepers in Goma. The official highlighted that looting had been widespread in the area, with the roof sheets of the entire Goma airport building being removed. However, the SANDF base remains secure.
“The communication is essentially cut off; there is no internet, but they do have power. While the fighting has subsided, Rwandan forces have taken control of the Goma airport and are currently overseeing the situation,” the official explained.
Although the soldiers still have their weapons to prevent looting, food supply remains a significant issue. They are surviving on stored food, which allows them to prepare one meal a day, in addition to breakfast cereal.
The soldiers are using satellite phones to communicate, but there are concerns about the lack of updates on the next steps for their deployment. Despite these challenges, the official expressed confidence that the troops are relatively safe for now, with Rwandan forces indicating they are not engaged in combat with the SANDF.
Additionally, a growing issue among the troops is the lack of proper sanitation, as the company responsible for servicing the toilets has been unable to provide support due to the ongoing disruptions. Reports also indicated that some aircraft at Goma airport had been physically removed by vandals.
The tragic death of the 13 SANDF soldiers has heightened tensions between South Africa and Rwanda. Earlier reports suggested that M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, were behind the attack, leading to a diplomatic clash. Rwandan President Paul Kagame criticized South African officials, accusing them of misrepresenting discussions between the two governments, further straining relations between Pretoria and Kigali. This comes after South Africa condemned the M23 insurgency, which it claims has been supported by Rwandan forces.
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