Days after South Africans raised concerns about the safety of soldiers deployed to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), tragedy struck as two South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers lost their lives on Wednesday. Three others sustained severe injuries when a mortar bomb landed inside one of the South African Contingent’s military bases.
A mortar bomb is an explosive shell fired from an artillery weapon resembling a cannon. The SANDF confirmed the incident, stating that the soldiers were deployed under the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) mission in the DRC and were injured during indirect fire.
The SA Contingent’s primary objective is to support the government of the DRC in establishing and maintaining peace, security, and stability in the region.
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This contingent collaborates with international partners and local authorities to address various challenges and promote sustainable development efforts, ultimately improving the well-being of the people living in the DRC.
Unfortunately, due to the unforeseen impact of the indirect fire, the SANDF tragically lost two of its members, while three others sustained injuries. Immediate action was taken to transport the wounded to the nearest medical facility in Goma, where they received the necessary medical care and attention.
The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thandi Modise, along with Deputy Minister Thabang Makwetla, Acting Secretary for Defence Dr Thobekile Gamede, and Chief of the SANDF General Rudzani Maphwanya, expressed their heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased soldiers.
Earlier this month, President Cyril Ramaphosa issued a directive for the deployment of 2,900 SA soldiers to support the fight against illicit armed factions in the eastern region of the DRC. This deployment fulfils South Africa’s international obligation to the SADC’s mission in the country.
The budget for this year-long deployment is set at R2 billion. The Presidency has reassured the public that this deployment will not impact provisions for the cash-strapped SANDF’s regular maintenance and emergency repairs.
It is essential to recognize the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who put their lives on the line to support peace and stability in the DRC. Their dedication and commitment to the mission are commendable, and their loss is deeply felt by the nation.
South Africa remains committed to working with its international partners and the DRC government to address the challenges facing the region. The safety and well-being of the deployed soldiers will continue to be a priority, and measures will be taken to ensure their protection in the future.
May the fallen soldiers rest in peace, and may their families find strength and solace during this difficult time.
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