The tragic deaths of 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have sparked a wave of questions and concerns among South Africans and politicians. While President Cyril Ramaphosa maintains that the SANDF remains capable of defending the country and promoting peace across the continent, the fatalities at the hands of the M23 rebel group—allegedly backed by Rwandan military forces—have left many questioning the justification for the deployment, especially amid worries about insufficient resources and equipment for peacekeeping in the volatile region.
Politicians, some openly frustrated, have raised suspicions about the true motives behind the mission, with claims suggesting that the deployment could be tied to protecting President Ramaphosa’s mining interests. However, these claims have been firmly rejected by the presidency, which has called for any accusers to present concrete evidence.
Despite these controversies, the remains of the fallen soldiers were returned to South Africa, where a solemn ceremony took place in Centurion, Pretoria. President Ramaphosa addressed the mourners, acknowledging the “great opportunity” their deaths presented as a stark reminder of the heavy cost of constructing peace. “It is a great reminder of the great cost associated with the construction of peace in our country,” he said at Air Force Base Swartkop.
The president emphasized that the SANDF is not only equipped to defend South Africa’s citizens but also to intervene for the sake of peace and security in the region. He referenced the South African intervention in Mozambique, noting that the country’s involvement was not only for the benefit of Mozambique but for South Africa’s security as well. “What had befallen Mozambique through the incursions of insurgents could easily befall us,” Ramaphosa remarked.
South Africa’s commitment to peacekeeping efforts extends to the DRC, where the country plays a significant role in both the South African Development Community (SADC) and the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the DRC. Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s dedication to ending the long-standing conflict that has plagued the region for almost 30 years.
In his tribute to the fallen soldiers, the president spoke of their bravery and sacrifice in defending the vulnerable. “They died while defending the defenseless,” he said, extending his deepest sympathies to the families of the fallen heroes. “Even if they may sound like they are in faraway countries, they are still Africans,” Ramaphosa added, emphasizing that the SANDF’s mission was one of service to the African continent as a whole.
The loss of these soldiers has left a profound sadness in the nation. Ramaphosa recalled his visit to the grieving families, where he expressed his condolences and acknowledged their immense sorrow. “It was a moment of great sadness,” he reflected.
The president also expressed gratitude to the international community for their assistance in repatriating the fallen soldiers. The operation to bring the soldiers’ remains back to South Africa faced significant logistical challenges, particularly with the ongoing instability in the DRC. Ramaphosa thanked the United Nations, SADC, and other governments for their support during this difficult time, noting the complexity of the task.
While South Africa has fulfilled its duty to bring the soldiers home, Ramaphosa stressed that the mission must continue. “We must fulfill our duty to complete their mission,” he said, underlining the importance of seeing through the broader objectives of peace and security in the region.
The slain soldiers will be buried with full military honours, a tribute to their dedication and sacrifice. Their deaths, though deeply tragic, highlight the immense price that peace can demand and serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for stability across Africa.
