On 4 November 2025 the first group of 127 members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) deployed under the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) safely returned home.
The contingent, part of the SANDF’s Force Intervention Brigade (FIB), touched down at Bram Fischer International Airport in Bloemfontein marking the start of the phased return of 315 personnel between 4 and 6 November 2025.
Following their arrival the members proceeded to the Department of Defence Mobilisation Centre at De Brug near Bloemfontein where they will undergo a three-day demobilisation process. This programme includes debriefing sessions, administrative formalities and comprehensive reintegration support covering spiritual, psychological and social well-being to help them transition back into their home environments after months of operational deployment in the DRC.
The SANDF has played a vital role within MONUSCO’s Force Intervention Brigade, a United Nations formation mandated to neutralise armed groups and restore stability in the eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Working alongside forces from Tanzania and Malawi South African troops have contributed significantly to peace and security efforts bringing relative calm to several affected communities.
South Africa’s participation in MONUSCO underscores its ongoing commitment to regional peace and stability in line with the African Union’s “Silencing the Guns” initiative.
The safe return of the first group of FIB members represents the successful completion of yet another important peacekeeping chapter for South Africa. The SANDF continues to demonstrate professionalism, courage and resilience in fulfilling its peace support responsibilities further strengthening the nation’s reputation as a key contributor to peace and stability across the African continent.
The remaining groups of the contingent are scheduled to return on 5 and 6 November 2025.
