General Maphwanya: SANDF undeterred and committed to ensure peace prevails in Africa
Soldiers who died in various peacekeeping missions were honoured during a wreath-laying ceremony, with the most recent being the 14 soldiers who died in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
General Rudzani Maphwanya addressed the annual global commemoration of the International Day of United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers in De Brug Army Base in Bloemfontein on 29 May 2025. Picture: Simphiwe Nkosi/EWN
JOHANNESBURG - The chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), General Rudzani Maphwanya, has reaffirmed the defence force’s commitment to ensure peace and stability in war-ridden regions.
He addressed the annual global commemoration of the International Day of United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers in De Brug Army Base in Bloemfontein on Thursday.
Soldiers who died in various peacekeeping missions were honoured during a wreath-laying ceremony, with the most recent being the 14 soldiers who died in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
READ: SANDF to honour 14 soldiers who died in DRC on UN Peacekeeping Day
General Maphwanya said their commitment to the mission would not be forgotten.
"We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and comrades of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Their courage and selfless commitment to peace remain an inspiration. As the chief of the South African National Defence Force and the entire members of the National Defence Force, we remain undeterred and committed to working with like-minded forces to ensure peace prevails in our continent."