SANDF DRC

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has had a long-standing presence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), playing a key role in peacekeeping operations. However, 2024 has been a particularly challenging year for the SANDF, with ten of its soldiers losing their lives in the conflict-ridden region.

SANDF’s Role in the DRC

The SANDF is part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC). Its involvement in the DRC is largely aimed at stabilizing the eastern part of the country, which has been plagued by rebel insurgencies such as M23, a notorious rebel group known for destabilizing the area around Goma and Beni. The South African military’s presence in the DRC is part of broader peacekeeping and conflict resolution efforts under the United Nations and African Union.

Recent Tragedies

The most recent incident occurred in July 2024, when a SANDF soldier was tragically shot and killed near Goma Airport. The soldier was reportedly dressed in civilian clothing and was returning to his base after visiting a local restaurant. His body was discovered the following morning, and five people have since been arrested in connection with his death, including the restaurant manager and three Rwandan women living illegally in the DRC.

This incident is part of a string of fatalities involving SANDF personnel in the DRC this year. In early July, Major Tolla Pieterse died when a grenade detonated at his sleeping quarters in Beni. His death, which is being investigated as a possible murder, was one of several that have raised concerns about internal tensions within the SANDF ranks. Pieterse’s strict leadership style had reportedly drawn complaints from disgruntled soldiers.

Additionally, on 14 February 2024, two SANDF soldiers were killed, and three others were injured in a mortar attack by the M23 rebels. Another attack on 30 May saw a medic killed and 13 others wounded during fighting near Sake, while two Captains were killed in a subsequent M23 mortar attack in June.

Challenges Facing SANDF in the DRC

The SANDF faces a unique set of challenges in the DRC, where both combat and non-combat fatalities are becoming increasingly common. The region’s complex political environment, coupled with volatile rebel activity, makes it a dangerous posting for peacekeeping forces.

While SANDF’s involvement in the DRC is vital to stabilizing the region, the rising death toll raises questions about the safety of South African soldiers. With multiple fatalities resulting from internal issues such as disgruntled soldiers and the harsh realities of combat, military leadership will likely have to review strategies for both internal management and operational safety.

The Future of SANDF in the DRC

As the SANDF continues its peacekeeping mission in the DRC, the loss of its soldiers in 2024 underscores the risks involved in maintaining stability in one of Africa’s most troubled regions. With an internal investigation underway to uncover the circumstances behind the latest fatality, and ongoing efforts to quell rebel activity in the region, the SANDF will need to adapt and reinforce its strategies to ensure the safety of its personnel while fulfilling its peacekeeping mandate.

Conclusion

The South African National Defence Force’s deployment in the DRC remains a critical aspect of South Africa’s commitment to peace and security in Africa. However, the spate of deaths in 2024 reveals the harsh realities of military engagement in conflict zones

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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.

📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.

  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.

  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.

  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.

  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.

  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.

💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).

🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.

🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information

📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.

 

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