SANDF General Maphwanya says remains of fallen soldiers return to SA on Wednesday! The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has confirmed that the remains of 14 fallen soldiers who lost their lives in combat in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) will be returned to South Africa on Wednesday.
The announcement was made by SANDF chief General Rudzani Maphwanya during a Parliamentary Defence Committee meeting held on Tuesday afternoon. However, Maphwanya did not provide further details regarding the repatriation effort, despite persistent questioning from Parliamentarians who pressed for specifics on the arrival process.
Parliament Presses for Answers
General Maphwanya, along with Defence Ministers Angie Motshekga and Bantu Holomisa, appeared before a joint meeting of Parliament’s Defence Committees to answer questions about the deaths of the soldiers and the broader South African peacekeeping mission in the DRC.
During the session, Minister Motshekga confirmed that the damaged runway at Goma Airport had significantly complicated efforts to return the soldiers’ remains.
“The first one that I will maybe have to try and respond to that has persistently been asked, is when are we going to get the remains of our members back. In one sentence: Tomorrow.”
While this provided some clarity, it left many Parliamentarians and families of the deceased wanting more information on the logistics of the repatriation.
Challenges in the Repatriation Effort
The South African mission in the DRC is part of a Southern African Development Community (SADC) agreement aimed at stabilizing the region rather than a direct bilateral arrangement with the DRC government.
The recent deaths of 14 South African soldiers have cast a spotlight on the risks associated with the mission. The soldiers died after three days of intense fighting that began on January 29, 2025. Their deaths have raised concerns about the safety and conditions faced by South African troops deployed in conflict zones.
The repatriation efforts have faced major logistical challenges, with Goma Airport’s damaged runway preventing a smooth return process. Despite these setbacks, SANDF has assured families and the public that the soldiers’ remains will be returned as soon as possible.
Support for the Families of Fallen Soldiers
General Maphwanya also reassured the families of the fallen soldiers that they were receiving all necessary support to help them cope with their loss.
“The families of the 14 soldiers who died 10 days ago have been receiving all the necessary support to deal with their loss.”
The South African government has pledged to assist the families through counseling services, financial support, and funeral arrangements.
However, military families and defence experts have raised concerns about the lack of transparency regarding the safety of troops stationed in the DRC and the long-term sustainability of South Africa’s peacekeeping commitments.
South Africa’s Role in the DRC Mission
The deployment of South African troops in the DRC is part of a broader regional peacekeeping initiative under the SADC agreement. The mission aims to restore stability and combat rebel activity in the region.
South African soldiers have been actively engaged in combat, facing dangerous conditions while working to bring peace to the war-torn nation.
Critics argue that the high casualty rates highlight the growing risks of South Africa’s involvement, and some are questioning whether the deployment should continue under the current circumstances.
What Happens Next?
With the repatriation process now underway, focus will shift to how South Africa honors its fallen soldiers and whether the country will reevaluate its military presence in the DRC.
Families and the nation will be watching closely as the government provides further details about funeral arrangements, compensation, and continued support for the bereaved families.
At the same time, military experts and political leaders are likely to continue scrutinizing the safety measures for troops still deployed in the volatile region.
For now, the priority remains bringing the fallen soldiers home and ensuring their families receive the support and closure they deserve.