President Ramaphosa Honours 14 Fallen SANDF Soldiers

President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to the 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), describing them as gallant heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for peace.

Speaking at the transfer ceremony and memorial service at Swartkop Air Force Base, President Ramaphosa expressed the nation’s gratitude for their service.

"You died on the battlefield, far from all you held dear. But you are home now. You have come to your resting place. We are here to receive you with open arms and to lay you to rest."

The soldiers were deployed as part of South Africa’s peacekeeping mission under the Southern African Development Community (SADC), protecting civilians and working towards a conflict-free Africa.

A Nation in Mourning

The sombre ceremony took place amid rainfall, symbolizing the nation’s grief. General Rudzani Maphwanya, Chief of the SANDF, condemned political debates surrounding the mission, urging respect for the fallen troops.

"A nation in grief should not be throwing accusations about the merits of our deployment. Our people were armed, resourced, and capable of meeting the challenge."

President Ramaphosa echoed this sentiment, calling for unity and respect instead of politicizing their deaths.

Bravery and Sacrifice

General Maphwanya praised the soldiers’ courage in the face of M23 rebel threats, saying they fought with unwavering resolve and resilience.

"They did not back down in the face of adversity; instead, they rose to the occasion."

To the grieving families, President Ramaphosa assured them that their sons’ sacrifices would never be forgotten.

Commitment to Peace

Despite the loss of soldiers, President Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to peace and stability on the continent.

"We will not weaken in our resolve to realise an Africa free from war, poverty, and conflict. The greatest honour to their memory is to achieve this vision."

As South Africa bows its head in collective mourning, the nation stands in remembrance of its fallen heroes who gave their lives in the pursuit of peace.