14 SANDF members will be given proper send-off: Government

The South African government has vowed that the 14 SANDF members who died in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo will be given a proper send-off.

The handing over of mortal remains will be held at the Airforce Base Swartkop in Centurion on Thursday.

There will also be a memorial service to pay homage to the departed troops.

President Cyril Ramaphosa declared seven days of mourning and the national flag flown at half-mast to honour the fallen heroes.

The repatriation process of the soldiers has been riddled with a number of delays. One of the delays has been the pathology process that had to be done.

Stability mission

South Africa is part of the SADC mission SAMIDRC and UN mission MONUSCO to restore stability in the mineral rich parts of Congo, that is facing instability.

“SAMIDRC comprising soldiers from Malawi, South Africa and Tanzania was deployed in December 2023 to the Eastern part of the DRC. Their main operating base was established in sake near the city of Goma, an area plagued by violence and instability for many years. The primary threat in this area comes from the rebel group that is alleged to be armed, supported, trained and accompanied by the Rwandan Defence Force,” says SANDF Chief Rudzani Maphwanya.

A historic joint summit by SADC-East African Community leaders called for a ceasefire in the Eastern DRC and for the states and non-states actors get on the negotiating table.

“The time for action is now. The lives of millions depend on our ability to navigate this complex and challenging situation with wisdom, clarify of mind, empathy for the millions whose lives and livelihoods have been plunged into uncertainty,” says Kenyan President William Ruto.

South African authorities worked with the United Nations to facilitate the movement of mortal remains.

This is a critical moment for the bereaved families as they want closure and they certainly hope that their loved ones will also rest in eternal peace.

Video: DRC Conflict – Repatriation of 14 SANDF soldiers’ remains at advanced stage: Khayelihle Khumalo