On February 13, 2025, the Co-Chairpersons of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence attended the repatriation ceremony for soldiers killed in the DRC. They expressed gratitude to all parties involved in the repatriation and highlighted the importance of collaboration in ongoing peacekeeping missions as part of the AU’s Agenda 2063. The committee also emphasized support for the soldiers’ families during this difficult time.
The Co-Chairpersons of the Joint Standing Committee on Defence, Mr. Malusi Gigaba and Mr. Phiroane Phala, attended a ceremony to welcome the repatriation of South African National Defence Force soldiers who perished in the conflict in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The committee expressed gratitude to the various parties involved in the complex repatriation process, acknowledging the delays but celebrating the soldiers’ return for final burial.
Mr. Phala highlighted the importance of collaboration in the repatriation efforts, especially acknowledging Uganda’s role in transferring the remains from the DRC to South Africa. He emphasized that such cooperation is vital for fostering dialogue to address the persistent instability in the DRC.
Regarding South Africa’s commitment to peacekeeping, the committee reiterated the obligation to participate in such missions as part of the African Union’s Agenda 2063. Mr. Gigaba stressed that the deployment of the SANDF serves as a significant diplomatic tool for peacebuilding on the continent and is crucial in achieving lasting stability.
The committee remains committed to investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident that led to the soldiers’ demise, emphasizing the necessity of understanding the events to prevent future occurrences. The continued utilization of diplomatic resources is essential to fulfill the strategic objectives of peace and security.
In honoring the soldiers’ memory, the return of their remains fulfills the promise made by the Minister of Defence and the Chief of the SANDF. Support for the bereaved families is now a priority, as Mr. Phala insists on ensuring that they receive adequate care during this challenging time.
The repatriation of South African soldiers from the DRC marks a significant acknowledgment of their sacrifice. The Joint Standing Committee on Defence commends the collaborative efforts involved in this process while reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to peacekeeping and providing support for the bereaved families. Investigative measures will continue to ensure such incidents are understood and mitigated.
Original Source: www.parliament.gov.za
