President Cyril Ramaphosa led a memorial service for 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He acknowledged concerns raised by MPs regarding the deployment, emphasizing South Africa's commitment to peacebuilding on the continent. Ramaphosa praised the SANDF's professionalism and thanked the families for their sacrifice.
South African National Defence Force members during a handover ceremony and memorial service for 14 soldiers at the Air Force Base Swartkop in Pretoria on February 13, 2025.President Cyril Ramaphosa President says government takes seriously the concerns that various MPs have raised over the deployment of the South African National Defence Force members to the Democratic Republic of Congo , however, the country has an important role to play in safeguarding peace in Africa.
Ramaphosa also thanked the SANDF for facilitating the repatriation of the bodies and the bereaved families for allowing their loved ones to serve South Africa. He says, “I am very pleased to be leading a South African National Defence Force that is so well organised as to be able to give them the military honours as we lay them to rest in all parts of the country where they have come from. The children of our various provinces have lost their lives. Let us celebrate their lives and give them the honour that they deserve. South Africa dips its head collectively in honour of these soldiers.
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