An Ingenious Comic Strip from SA Soldiers in the Congo…

A South African soldier stationed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has produced a creative and unique comic strip (see below)…about a day in the life of the South African contingent of the MONUSCO Force Intervention Brigade (FIB).

The comic strip – which is presented in the form of photos with voice bubbles and captions – gives its readers a glimpse into the life of these soldiers as they undergo a Mine Sweeping Exercise.

Created by Lieutenant John Dovey, it manages to convey the severity of the situation with an ironic blend of humour and tangible comradery.

“Hey guys, stay safe and don’t forget to duck!” reads one voice bubble, as the convoy sets off.

And in another, the convoy passes what is apparently a FARDC soldier, who is casually carrying four rockets and a slung launcher. A voice bubble is shown of someone talking over the radio, saying: “watch that guy. Remember how the Col. was killed.”

It’s a comic strip about a situation that is anything but comical.

For many South Africans who may be numbed, horrified or confused by the situation in the Congo – this comic strip comes in a very “user-friendly” format that people can relate to; and delivers a reminder to spare a thought for our soldiers in combat right now.

The South African contingent was deployed to the strife-torn Congo last year, as part of the FIB, in the first ever UN peace-keeping mission to be given an offensive mandate.

Just last weekend, South African soldiers – who are supporting the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) – were involved in a combat with APCLS rebels in the Nyabiondo area. No South Africans were injured.