Central SA
SA soldiers deployed in DRC set to be honoured─── KEKELETSO MOSEBETSI 13:38 Fri, 05 Sep 2025
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is set to honour soldiers who were deployed in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as part of the peacekeeping mission.
A total of 164 recipients – including generals, senior officers, warrant officers, and senior non-commissioned officers from various services and divisions, mostly from the Free State – were presented with medals during a parade led by SANDF chief General Rudzani Maphwanya at the Bloemspruit Air Force Base.
In early December, additional medals will be awarded to soldiers who served in the DRC as part of the peacekeeping mission, said Rear Admiral Prince Tshabalala, SANDF spokesperson.
SANDF members serving in the DRC were honoured with medals at the Bloemspruit Air Force Base in Bloemfontein. Photo: Gypseenia Lion
“South Africans must take cognisance of the many members who demonstrated bravery in the face of the enemy – on the front lines and behind them. Those members also deserve recognition,” Tshabalala said.
The handover ceremony symbolises the recipients’ loyalty to the military, their courage, and their unwavering commitment to serving the SANDF and the nation.
“We do this annually, travelling across the country,” he added. To date, approximately 2,000 medals have been awarded nationwide for long and outstanding service.
“General Maphwanya personally presents these medals, and we use the occasion to remind members that they are still valued and honoured for their ultimate sacrifice.”
Although the medals carry no monetary value, they represent the highest honour within military tradition.
In cases where a SANDF member has paid the ultimate price, their family is invited to receive the medal on their behalf.
SANDF members on parade at the Bloemspruit Air Force Base. Photo: Gypseenia Lion
“Today we are at Bloemspruit Air Force Base, which is hosting this event. Each of the SANDF’s four service branches takes turns coordinating and leading these prestigious parades. The army led the first; now it’s the air force’s turn,” Tshabalala explained.
The next parade will be held in Cape Town, where more than 300 recipients will be honoured.
SANDF chief Gen. Rudzani Maphwanya awarded the medals. Photo: Gyseenia Lion
A larger handover ceremony is planned for Gauteng, where over 1,000 soldiers will receive medals for their service and sacrifice.
