The remains of 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers, tragically killed in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, arrived back in South Africa last night. Their bodies were first transported to the United Nations Logistics Base in Entebbe, Uganda, over the weekend before making the final journey home. A memorial service honoring the fallen soldiers will take place this evening, followed by a handover ceremony at the Swartkops Airforce Base in Pretoria, where the government will return the remains to their families.
Defence and Military Veterans Minister, Angie Motshekga, spoke during a National Assembly debate last week, providing details of the soldiers’ origins. Seven hailed from Limpopo, three from the Free State, and others from the North West, Eastern Cape, and Northern Cape. Minister Motshekga confirmed that these heroes would be laid to rest with full military honors, reflecting their dedication to their country.
The soldiers were killed two weeks ago while serving on a peacekeeping mission in the DRC as part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) effort. They were caught in the crossfire between the DRC military and the M23 rebel group, who have been engaged in ongoing violent clashes in the region. Their sacrifice comes amidst the ongoing instability in the region, highlighting the risks faced by those serving in international peacekeeping roles.
The names of the fallen soldiers are Staff Sergeant William Eddie Cola, Staff Sergeant Molahlehi Ishmael Molahlehi, Staff Sergeant Shwahlane Theophilus Seepe, Corporal Matome Justice Malesa, Corporal Rinae Nemavhulani, Lance Bombardier Itumeleng Macdonald Moreo, Lance Corporal Tseke Moffat Molapo, Lance Corporal Metse Stansly Raswiswi, Rifleman Sebatane Richard Chokoe, Rifleman Derrick Maluleke, Rifleman Tshidiso Andries Mabele, Rifleman Calvin Louis Moagi, Rifleman Mokete Joseph Mobe, and Private Peter Jacobus Strydom. Their memory will live on, and their families will be honored for the ultimate sacrifice made in service of peace.
