-
Members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) seen outside one of the organisation’s offices.
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane is among the mourners at the funeral service of one of the 14 South African soldiers killed in the DRC, which is underway in Langkloof.
Staff Sergeant William Cola’s body arrived in his hometown this morning.
The SANDF members died in fighting between the M23 rebels and the Congolese military in eastern DRC.
Mabuyane says Cola journeyed beyond the borders of South Africa carrying a shield of peace.
“Getting inside here, looking at the family, going through this somber moment, it’s one of those difficult moments when you just come to realize that what has been said is reality. But we’re here to comfort the family. We want to take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt condolences once again to the family. We want to remind the family that this is a life to be celebrated. This is a life that has been well lived for all South Africans. This is a life that contributed so much to the peace and order of stability across the world. They were there not out of their own interest.”
VIDEO | SANDF soldier, Sgt Cola’s funeral service is in progress:
Meanwhile, the funeral service of another SANDF member, Brigadier-General Joseph Manyatsa, is underway in Botshabelo in the Free State.
He died last month after a short illness.
Some mourners say they will remember Manyatsa as a dedicated member of the military since joining it in 1992.
He’ll be buried later today.
VIDEO | Brigadier General Joseph Manyatsa’s funeral service is underway:
