Tensions between South Africa and Rwanda have escalated following the deaths of South African peacekeepers attributed to Rwandan-backed rebels in DR Congo. President Ramaphosa’s accusations elicited a stern rebuttal from President Kagame, leading to heated exchanges and clarifications regarding the roles of their respective military forces. The situation underscores a long history of strained diplomatic relations, complicated by economic interests and military capabilities within the conflict zone.
South Africa and Rwanda’s diplomatic ties have deteriorated after President Cyril Ramaphosa accused Rwandan-supported M23 rebels of killing South African peacekeepers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). The conflict escalated as rebels captured Goma, prompting South Africa to issue a warning that further attacks would be seen as an act of war. President Paul Kagame of Rwanda responded by labeling South Africa a “belligerent force” aiding the Congolese government against its citizens.
Since last week, 13 South African soldiers have lost their lives amidst ongoing violence, which has raised concerns over the safety of peacekeeping troops deployed in the region. South Africa leads a peacekeeping contingent, SAMIDRC, as part of the Southern African Development Community’s effort to address instability in mineral-rich eastern DR Congo. Historical tensions between the two countries have further fueled this conflict, with strained relations dating back to diplomatic expulsions in 2014.
Ramaphosa and Kagame previously spoke about the urgent need for a ceasefire and renewed peace talks. However, Ramaphosa later attributed the deaths of South African troops to both M23 and Rwandan forces, which incited Kagame’s anger. Kagame disputed Ramaphosa’s claims, asserting, “The Rwanda Defence Force is an army, not a militia,” and clarified that the Congolese army was responsible for the killings of South African soldiers.
Kagame emphasized that South Africa should refrain from interfering in DR Congo, labeling them as a misguided peacemaker and warned that Rwanda would respond strongly if provoked. This conflict highlights South Africa’s military legacy in DR Congo, which began post-apartheid with contributions to UN peacekeeping missions. Economic interests linked to mineral resources in DR Congo further complicate the situation for South Africa.
Historically, South Africa struggled to maintain military influence in the region due to budget cuts affecting its capabilities. The diminishing air support has left South African troops vulnerable amidst the current unrest, leading to difficult decisions regarding their continued presence in DR Congo. Although any withdrawal of troops requires collaboration with the Southern African Development Community (Sadc), significant introspection is crucial regarding South Africa’s military role in the ongoing conflict.
The relationship between South Africa and Rwanda has been historically tense, particularly given the involvement of both nations in the conflicts within the Congolese region. South Africa’s military has participated in peacekeeping missions in DR Congo since the 1990s, driven by both a commitment to stability in the region and economic interests tied to mineral resources. Recent violent confrontations between South African peacekeepers and the M23 rebel group—allegedly backed by Rwanda—have reignited diplomatic tensions that had previously simmered down after Ramaphosa’s recent visit to Rwanda.
The ongoing conflict between South Africa and Rwanda over the situation in DR Congo reveals the complexities of regional politics and military involvement. As both countries exchange accusations and question each other’s roles, the safety of peacekeepers remains a priority. The decisions surrounding South Africa’s military presence emphasize the need for diplomatic engagement and careful consideration of the potential consequences of continued involvement in DR Congo.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
