East African Community holds special virtual summit, skipped by DR Congo’s president, to discuss Goma crisis - Anadolu Ajansı

At least 13 of its soldiers, who are part of a SADC peacekeeping mission, have been killed in the conflict pitting Rwanda-back M23 rebels against the Congolese army and its allies.

Violent clashes in the Democratic Republic of Congo have escalated as the M23 rebel group takes control of Goma, resulting in the deaths of 13 South African Defense Force soldiers and a humanitarian crisis.

Shifting calculations by sponsors of the M23 rebel group risk triggering another war in the Great Lakes Region, underscoring importance of African mediators and global partners acting quickly to stem the fighting.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with U.S. Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, on Wednesday, Netanyahu said in a statement, amid the Gaza ceasefire and a regional diplomatic push.

Defence Minister Angie Motshekga visited the SANDF members in DRC, before nine South African soldiers were killed in fierce battle.

Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, defence minister Angie Motshekga and international relations minister Ronald Lamola outlined the latest developments, South Africa's involvement, and diplomatic efforts to restore stability.

Congo has called on international powers to pressure Rwanda, potentially via sanctions, to end the M23 offensive

South Africa's statistics agency has updated its consumer inflation basket for the first time since 2022, including items like rosé wine, air fryers and streaming services to reflect changes in spending habits.

Ramaphosa mourned the death of the 13 SANDF soldiers in the ongoing fighting in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Members of the M23 rebel group ride on a pickup truck as they leave their position for patrols amid conflict between them and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC), in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, January 29, 2025.