SA Soldiers Killed in DRC to be Laid to Rest with Full Military Honour

The 14 South African soldiers who tragically lost their lives in the ongoing violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) will be buried with full military honours, Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga confirmed.

Motshekga stated that the soldiers’ remains are expected to return to South Africa on Thursday after delays in their repatriation process. The Minister addressed the National Assembly debate on Monday regarding the South African National Defence Force’s (SANDF) participation in the DRC, paying tribute to the fallen soldiers for their sacrifice.

The 14 soldiers, who were part of South Africa’s contribution to the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the DRC, represent different provinces across the country. Seven of the soldiers hailed from Limpopo, three from the Free State, and the remainder from the North West, Eastern Cape, and Northern Cape.

Motshekga expressed her condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and assured the nation that all the officers would be honoured for their bravery and service. “These men have made the ultimate sacrifice, and we will ensure they are laid to rest with full military honour,” she said.

The soldiers’ bodies were initially expected to be returned to South Africa last week; however, delays in the process have pushed the repatriation back. Over the weekend, the SANDF reported that the bodies were moved from the DRC to the United Nations Logistics Base in Entebbe, Uganda. From there, the remains are scheduled to be brought back to South Africa.

Also Read: South African Parliament to Hold Urgent Debate on Fallen SANDF Soldiers in DRC

The Soldiers’ Names:

• Staff Sergeant Shwahlane Theophilus Seepe
• Corporal Rinae Nemavhulani
• Rifleman Mokete Joseph Mobe
• Rifleman Derrick Maluleke
• Rifleman Sebatane Richard Chokoe
• Corporal Matome Justice Malesa
• Lance Bombardier Itumeleng Macdonald Moreo
• Lance Corporal Tseke Moffat Molapo
• Lance Corporal Metse Stansly Raswiswi
• Private Peter Jacobus Strydom
• Staff Sergeant Molahlehi Ishmael Molahlehi
• Staff Sergeant William Eddie Cola
• Rifleman Tshidiso Andries Mabele
• Rifleman Calvin Louis Moagi

The nation will remember these soldiers for their courage and sacrifice while on peacekeeping duty. As their remains return home, South Africa stands united in mourning, grateful for their service and the ultimate price they paid.

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com