A sombre memorial service took place last night at Swartkops Airforce Base in Centurion, Gauteng, to honour the 14 South African soldiers who tragically lost their lives while on a peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The families of the fallen soldiers gathered under pouring rain, as the nation mourned the brave individuals who paid the ultimate price in defence of peace and security in Africa.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, Commander in Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), was present at the service to offer his condolences and commend the soldiers for their bravery.
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He praised their dedication to restoring peace in the DRC, a mission that cost them their lives but was driven by their commitment to the safety and dignity of others. “They lost their lives in the name of duty, in pursuit of peace, and in the cause of silencing the guns across our beloved continent of Africa,” Ramaphosa said.
Honouring the Fallen: Names of the Brave Soldiers
The 14 soldiers who lost their lives were:
- 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
- Private Peter Jacobus Strydom
These brave souls were remembered for their courage and sacrifice, and the deep sense of gratitude for their service was echoed by all who attended. As their families received the remains of their loved ones, SANDF Commander General Rudzani Maphwanya spoke movingly about the soldiers’ bravery.
“You died on the battlefield, far from all you held dear. But you are home now. You have come to your rest. We are here to receive you with open arms,” Maphwanya said.
A Call for Ethical Leadership and Moral Integrity
In addition to the emotional tributes, General Maphwanya took a moment to address his fellow military leaders. He emphasized the importance of maintaining moral integrity, particularly when national security is at stake.
“Our soldiers went into the heart of darkness with deep courage,” Maphwanya stated. “We must always occupy the moral high ground, and our actions and words must reflect the ethical values that govern our ranks.”
The ceremony was a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by South Africa’s military personnel in their mission to bring peace to the continent. As the rain fell, the families of the fallen soldiers took solace in knowing that their loved ones’ bravery and service would never be forgotten.
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