Pretoria: The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has confirmed that all operational allowances owed to its personnel deployed to the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Republic of the Congo (SAMIDRC) have been paid. The payments have been deposited directly into the soldiers' individual bank accounts.
According to South African Government News Agency, this assurance comes after reports of frustration among soldiers regarding a pay dispute. The soldiers claimed they were owed at least R600,000 each for their 15-month deployment. One soldier, interviewed by the Sunday Times, stated that they expected to receive R100,000 per month but were instead paid only R58,000.
The SANDF has announced that its Chief of Human Resources is conducting an internal investigation to address and resolve any concerns related to the allowances. The investigation aims to ensure accuracy, transparency, and the prompt resolution of any identified discrepancies.
The SANDF emphasized its commitment to ensuring the fair and timely payment of all entitlements to its members. It values the dedication and service of its personnel, as stated in their official communication.
In June, Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga welcomed 249 South African troops returning from their deployment in the eastern DRC as part of the SAMIDRC. The phased withdrawal from the peacekeeping mission saw the first group arriving at Air Force Base Waterkloof in Pretoria from Tanzania.
During the mission, 14 soldiers lost their lives, and several others were injured in clashes with the M23 rebel group. The fighting in the Goma region led to soldiers' deaths from January 23 to 27 during the rebels' advance on Sake and Goma.
The SAMIDRC is tasked with restoring peace, security, and stability in the DRC, Africa's second-largest country. Soldiers with personal queries about their allowances are advised to contact the SANDF allowances query hotline or email for assistance.