SANDF’s Rudzani Maphwanya honours slain soldier Rifleman Derrick Maluleke for his dedication to peace in DRC! The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) chief, General Rudzani Maphwanya, paid tribute to Rifleman Derrick Maluleke over the weekend, praising his dedication to peace during his deployment in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Maluleke was laid to rest in Nhlaniki village, located outside Giyani in Limpopo, after being killed in combat with the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group.
Maluleke, 36, was among the first nine SANDF soldiers to lose their lives in the conflict last month. The tragedy marked one of the deadliest attacks on South African forces deployed in the region.
A Solemn Farewell Ceremony
The repatriation of the 14 fallen soldiers, including Maluleke, took place last week Thursday during a ceremony at the Air Force Base Swartkop, in Centurion. The event was attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga, and other government officials. Grieving families and military personnel gathered to honor the soldiers, whose sacrifices have been felt deeply across the country.
Rifleman Derrick Maluleke
Maluleke’s funeral service, held on Sunday, drew hundreds of mourners, including family members, friends, colleagues, and local community members. The mood was one of mourning and reflection, but also of pride in Maluleke’s dedication to his mission.
General Maphwanya’s Tribute
Speaking to the mourners, General Maphwanya highlighted Maluleke’s bravery, loyalty, and dedication during his deployment to the DRC, where South African forces are part of the United Nations peacekeeping mission aimed at stabilizing the region.
“Rifleman Maluleke was out there in the DRC to foster peace and guarantee that we all enjoy a better life and economic prosperity,” Maphwanya said.
He emphasized that Maluleke exemplified the resilience and courage of a true soldier.
“He lived his life in such a way that defied death. When death faced him, he continued to fight and carry on the battle. He is the embodiment of those brave warriors, the ones that we will never forget.”
Maphwanya added that Maluleke would be remembered as a hero who never abandoned his comrades, even in the face of danger.
“He fought with valour and dedication. He is one of the few that had indicated that they will never let down their comrades. It is on that note that we, as the SANDF, continue to say that we need soldiers like Maluleke—fighters who will not back down in the face of adversity.”
A Life Dedicated to Service
Maluleke joined the SANDF in 2011, dedicating more than a decade of his life to serving his country. His time in the SANDF was marked by numerous achievements and a steadfast commitment to peacekeeping missions, particularly in conflict-ridden regions such as the DRC.
Maluleke’s deployment was part of an ongoing United Nations stabilization effort in the DRC, where the M23 rebel group has caused significant instability. South African soldiers have played a critical role in attempting to bring peace to the region despite the dangers they face.
Family and Community Mourn Their Loss
Maluleke leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife, three children, siblings, and parents. The family has expressed pride in Maluleke’s service but is also grappling with the devastating loss.
Community members and colleagues who attended the funeral also shared memories of Maluleke as a dedicated soldier and a beloved member of his hometown.
Honoring the Fallen
As South Africa mourns Maluleke, the nation also prepares to lay to rest the other fallen soldiers from the recent attack. Funerals for the remaining troops are expected to take place throughout the week, offering opportunities for further reflection and mourning.
Maluleke’s story is one of sacrifice and unwavering commitment to peace, a legacy that will not be forgotten by his family, comrades, or the nation he served. The SANDF’s ongoing presence in the DRC will continue to be marked by the courage of soldiers like Maluleke, who gave their lives in the name of peace and stability.
