JOHANNESBURG - The first group of South African troops deployed to the Democratic Republic of Congo as part of the SADC, arrives back home this Friday.
Defence Minister Angie Motshekga will welcome them at Air Force Base Bloemspruit in Bloemfontein.
They are expected to touch down at midday.
Soldiers were deployed as part of the Southern African Development Community mission, to ensure peace and stability in Eastern DRC.
But the M23 rebel group has now occupied the region.
During the offensive 14 South African soldiers were killed and scores wounded.
The SANDF has confirmed the withdrawal process is proceeding as planned, despite earlier reports of logistical problems.
Motshekga has praised the troops for their service saying they represented the country with honour, and courage in a complex situation.