Combat Bonus Raised to $325 to Boost Army Morale in Eastern DRC

As the war in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues, the army has announced a boost in morale and pay for its soldiers on the front line. On April 8, Lieutenant General Ychaligonza Nduru Jacques confirmed that the combat bonus for deployed troops has now been increased to $325 USD.

This financial increase comes at a critical moment. As many politicians and civil society figures begin to show support for the M23 rebel movement, DRC military leaders are doubling their efforts to boost troop morale and unity within the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC).

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During a recent visit to the Chiko military camp in Mambango, in the city of Beni, General Ychaligonza praised the courage of soldiers currently fighting to protect national sovereignty. He made special mention of those who held their ground in Goma for four days without surrendering to M23 rebels, a move he called “a true sign of patriotism.”

The general assured the soldiers that President Félix Tshisekedi is committed to improving their living conditions. “The president stands with you,” said Ychaligonza. “All units at the front will receive special treatment. Your salary has gone up, and your combat bonus is also increased. You’ll be receiving that payment soon and it’s a good one, I promise you.”

He emphasized that the $325 bonus is only for soldiers who remained loyal to the country. Those who surrendered or joined the enemy will not receive it. “You didn’t lose the war. You stayed strong for four days and faced the enemy. That’s why we are proud of you,” the general said.

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Ychaligonza also called for greater unity across all FARDC units, insisting that peace and victory for Congo will only come through shared sacrifice and strong defense of the country’s borders.

by XTRAfrica