The South African National Defence Force has released the names of 14 soldiers killed during an M23 rebel attack near Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo. The casualties range from staff sergeants to riflemen, representing multiple units within the SANDF peacekeeping mission.
Staff Sergeant William Eddie Cola, Staff Sergeant Shwahlane Theophilus Seepe, and Sergeant Molahlehi Ishmael Molahlehi were among the senior non-commissioned officers who lost their lives in the engagement.
Corporals Matome Justice Malesa and Rinae Nemavhulani fell alongside Lance Bombardier Itumeleng Macdonald Moreo and Lance Corporals Tseke Moffat Molapo and Metse Stansly Raswiswi.
The riflemen who made the ultimate sacrifice were Sebatane Richard Chokoe, Derrick Maluleke, Tshidiso Andries Mabele, Calvin Louis Moagi, and Mokete Joseph Mobe. Private Peter Jacobus Strydom was also among the fallen.
“Each of these soldiers demonstrated extraordinary courage in defense of peace,” SANDF spokesperson Siphiwe Dlamini said. “Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
The soldiers were part of a Southern African Development Community mission deployed to eastern DRC in December 2023 to help stabilize the volatile region.
The fatal encounter occurred when M23 rebels launched a major offensive to capture Goma. Though SANDF forces successfully prevented the rebels from advancing, the cost in lives was severe.
This marks South Africa’s largest single-day combat loss since the country began participating in international peacekeeping operations after apartheid.
Defense Minister Angie Motshekga has ordered flags to be flown at half-mast at all military installations. Full military honors will be accorded to each of the fallen soldiers at memorial services being arranged in consultation with their families.