Introduction
In a significant geopolitical shift, the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Monusco, is making way for a new era. The Southern African Development Community (Sadc), spearheaded by the South African military, is set to take charge. This transition comes after 20 years of Monusco’s presence and amid escalating security concerns in the eastern DRC.
What Drives the Deployment?
The decision to deploy Sadc forces comes against the backdrop of a deteriorating security situation in the eastern DRC. Monusco faced criticism, and its planned drawdown post the national elections added urgency to finding an alternative. Dissatisfaction with the East African Community Regional Force’s impact on security and the competition for influence between East African Community and Sadc member states further fueled the need for change.
Challenges for Sadc Mission
Sadc’s mission, aptly named SAMIDRC, faces the formidable task of replacing the East African Community Regional Force and tackling entrenched rebel groups, particularly the M23 rebels allegedly supported by Rwanda. Unlike its predecessors, Sadc aims to neutralize these groups in collaboration with local security forces, presenting a fresh approach to a long-standing issue.
Lessons from the Past
Reflecting on past interventions, the Sadc/Monusco Force Intervention Brigade highlights critical requirements for success. Sizeable forces, robust air cover, efficient transport, and special forces capabilities are imperative. Operational intelligence, firepower, and adaptability to challenging terrains are indispensable elements, as observed from past experiences in Mozambique.
Role of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF)
Post-apartheid South Africa has been a key mediator in African conflicts, and the SANDF assumes leadership in the Sadc intervention force. However, the SANDF faces significant challenges – it is overstretched, underfunded, and burdened with diverse tasks, including domestic security and international peace missions.
Resource Constraints
The SANDF’s capacity is hampered by a lack of resources. Politicians’ expectations clash with the reality of insufficient funding, leading to operational constraints. Critical equipment, like transport aircraft and helicopters, is in short supply, hindering essential air support in the challenging terrains of the DRC.
Aging Reserve Force
Compounding the challenges is the aging reserve force, a vital component with dwindling numbers and an average age of 46. This presents operational challenges as active soldiers should ideally be young and fit. Personnel shortages have led to an increased reliance on the reserve force for both domestic and international deployments.
Multifaceted Risks
The risks associated with this mission are multifaceted. Securing necessary funding is paramount, as seen in the struggles of the SADC mission in Mozambique. Adequate capabilities and equipment from SADC member states are crucial for mission success, mirroring challenges faced in previous deployments.
Operational Risks
In the operational theater, the Sadc force confronts an adversary allegedly supported by Rwanda. Insufficient or inappropriate equipment increases risks to the soldiers, as evidenced by the strategic failure of the SANDF in the Central African Republic in 2013. The mission underscored the limitations of deploying forces without adequate logistical and practical support.
Conclusion
As South Africa leads the charge in a new military intervention in the DRC, the challenges and risks are evident. The success of Sadc’s mission hinges on overcoming resource constraints, addressing operational risks, and learning from past experiences. The geopolitical landscape in the region adds another layer of complexity, requiring careful navigation.
