How much SANDF paid soldiers deployed to DR Congo
SANDF confirmed to its members that it has paid all operational allowances owed to personnel deployed to the Republic of the Congo.
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) assured its members, their families, and the public that it has paid all operational allowances owed to personnel deployed to the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Republic of the Congo (SAMIDRC) and deposited the money directly into their individual bank accounts.
These assurances came after reports revealed soldiers’ frustration with senior military leadership over a pay dispute, with claims that each soldier is owed at least R600 000.
One aggrieved soldier told the Sunday Times that he and his colleagues expected R100 000 per month for their 15-month deployment with the SADC force in eastern DRC but instead received only R58 000.
Internal investigation
However, the SANDF said its Chief of Human Resources is currently conducting an internal investigation to address and resolve any specific concerns related to the allowances.
“This process is intended to ensure accuracy, transparency, and the prompt resolution of any discrepancies that may be identified.
“The SANDF remains committed to the fair and timely payment of all entitlements to its members and values the continued dedication and service of its personnel,” the SANDF said in a statement.
Return of 249 troops
In June this year, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga welcomed back 249 South African troops who had served in the eastern DRC as part of the SAMIDRC.
The first group of SANDF heroes and heroines returned to Air Force Base Waterkloof in Pretoria from Tanzania, marking South Africa’s phased withdrawal from the regional peacekeeping mission.
Earlier this year, clashes with the M23 rebel group claimed the lives of 14 troop members and left others injured as fighting in the Goma region escalated.
The rebel group fought fiercely against the Congolese armed forces, killing soldiers between 23 and 27 January 2025 during its advance on Sake and Goma.
The South African soldiers had joined the SAMIDRC to help restore peace, security, and stability in Africa’s second-largest country.
The force said members who still have personal queries regarding their allowances are encouraged to contact the SANDF allowances query hotline on 012 355 6321 during working hours, alternatively 078 098 7651, or send an email to allowance.queries@dod.mil.za for assistance.