The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has released the names of soldiers who were killed during a fierce clash with the March 23 Movement (M23) in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Last Saturday, the defence force confirmed the deaths of the South African troops, marking one of the deadliest engagements in recent deployments.
SANDF Confirms Identities of Fallen Soldiers
As previously reported, nine SANDF members were initially killed during the battle as M23 rebels attempted to seize control of Goma. In the days following, the M23 rebels launched mortar attacks directed at Goma Airport, with several striking the SANDF base, resulting in further casualties. Tragically, three additional soldiers lost their lives in the attack, while two others succumbed to injuries in hospital, raising the total death toll to 14.
Here are the SANDF members who lost their lives in the DRC:
- Staff Sergeant William Eddie Cola
- Staff Sergeant Molahlehi Ishmael Molahlehi
- Staff Sergeant Shwahlane Theophilus Seepe
- Corporal Matome Justice Malesa
- Corporal Rinae Nemavhulani
- Lance Bombardier Itumeleng Macdonald Moreo
- Lance Corporal Tseke Moffat Molapo
- Lance Corporal Metse Stansly Raswiswi
- Rifleman Sebatane Richard Chokoe
- Rifleman Derrick Maluleke
- Rifleman Tshidiso Andries Mabele
- Rifleman Calvin Louis Moagi
- Rifleman Mokete Joseph Mobe
- Private Peter Jacobus Strydom
Acknowledgment of Sacrifice
SANDF spokesperson Siphiwe Dlamini emphasized the soldiers’ bravery, stating that they were part of the defence force’s contingent deployed as part of both the Southern African Development Community Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) and the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO).
“They displayed extraordinary courage in their confrontation with the M23 rebels who had attacked their base in Sake,” Dlamini said.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, along with SANDF Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya, have expressed their condolences to the families of the deceased, honoring their service and sacrifice.
Impact and Regional Implications
This incident underscores the ongoing instability in the region and the risks faced by South African troops as they contribute to peacekeeping and stabilization efforts. The loss of these soldiers has sparked renewed discussions on South Africa’s involvement in the mission and the broader security challenges in the DRC.
