The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo has called for an increase in the salaries of soldiers fighting in the eastern part of the country and for an improvement in the living conditions of their families. This directive was given by the Head of State during a Cabinet meeting held on February 21, 2025, where he emphasized that implementing this measure would strengthen the morale of the soldiers battling the M23 movement..
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For a long time, DRC soldiers have complained about low wages, with some receiving their salaries late and others not being paid at all. This issue led to significant discontent, especially when the Congolese government started employing European mercenaries.
In October 2024, a DRC soldier told the BBC that he earned $104 per month, whereas a mercenary was paid $5,000 per month, despite the fact that the Europeans rarely engaged in combat.
He stated, “When it comes to fighting, we are the ones sent to the front lines. They only come in to reinforce us.” According to the government spokesperson following the Cabinet meeting, President Tshisekedi paid tribute to the soldiers fighting to defend their country.
Muyaya stated, “He emphasized that it is our duty to provide them with the necessary resources to fulfill their mission. The President of the Republic requested the immediate implementation of measures to increase funds allocated to combat operations, especially for those deployed in conflict zones.”
Tshisekedi also called for special support for the families of soldiers on the battlefield, as “they bear the burden of this war,” and therefore need assistance in accessing healthcare services and education for their children.
To implement this directive, Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka announced that she would discuss the matter with government officials and present a report within seven days.
This decision by Tshisekedi comes after more than 280 mercenaries assisting the DRC army returned to their home countries in late January 2025, following the M23 movement capture of Goma.
