DRC Seeks Military Assistance from Chad to Counter M23 Rebel Advances

Diplomatic Efforts for Military Support

Didier Mazenga, the Minister of Regional Integration and Francophonie for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and special envoy of President Félix Tshisekedi, visited Chad on Tuesday, February 18th. This visit followed the African Union summit, where Mazenga delivered a message from President Tshisekedi to Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby, requesting comprehensive military aid.

Escalating Rebel Threat in South Kivu

The request for military assistance stems from the M23 rebel group's continued advances in South Kivu. The rebels have already seized key cities, including Goma and Bukavu, escalating the security crisis in the region. President Tshisekedi is seeking significant military support from Chad to counter the growing threat posed by the insurgents.

Historical Ties Between DRC and Chad

The appeal for assistance is grounded in the longstanding relationship between the two nations. President Tshisekedi has played a role in facilitating peace efforts in Chad's political crisis, strengthening bilateral ties. Chad is currently evaluating the request, ensuring compliance with legal, national, and international protocols while emphasizing diplomatic dialogue, in line with resolutions from the joint summit of the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) heads of state.

Financial Concerns Over Military Funding

As the DRC seeks financial backing for military operations, concerns have emerged over potential funding sources. The government is considering leveraging state-owned enterprises, including the National Social Security Fund (CNSS). However, this has sparked apprehension among CNSS executives regarding the potential impact on social security funds and retirees' benefits.

An official from the Financial Directorate warned against using CNSS reserves for military funding, arguing that these funds should be directed toward sustainable investments. Misappropriating them could threaten the future stability of the Fund, as well as the welfare of employees, providers, and retirees.

Chad’s Conditions for Military Assistance

According to reports, Chad has conditioned its military support on financial compensation. In 2023, Kinshasa acquired four second-hand MI-24 attack helicopters from Chad, initially considering the purchase of SUKHOI Su-25 aircraft from the Chadian Air Force. However, technical assessments deemed the SUKHOI aircraft outdated and unfit for use.

The 20 million-euro transaction included overhauling and repairing the second-hand helicopters. However, one of the four helicopters was lost after being struck by lightning over the Central African Republic on the night of May 3–4, 2023.

Shift in Strategy and SADC Troop Deployment

By July 2024, the DRC abandoned plans to request military support from Chad due to the deployment of SADC troops with an offensive mandate. These troops were supported by Burundian army battalions, reducing the need for additional foreign military intervention.

Challenges of Military Operations in DRC Terrain

Chadian military involvement in the DRC is historically significant. During President Idriss Déby’s tenure, over 2,000 Chadian soldiers were deployed to fight the RCD rebel group (the precursor to M23) and Jean-Pierre Bemba's MLC. In November 1998, 600 Chadian soldiers were ambushed by the RCD, resulting in 122 deaths, 148 injuries, and 68 soldiers taken as prisoners of war.

The DRC’s dense forests and mountainous regions present considerable challenges for Chadian military operations, further complicating the feasibility of their intervention.

Conclusion

While the DRC continues to seek military and financial solutions to counter the M23 insurgency, Chad's conditional support and the presence of SADC troops have influenced its strategic decisions. The situation remains dynamic, with security, financial, and diplomatic factors shaping the DRC’s approach to addressing the ongoing rebel threat.