The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is preparing to receive the body of the late Rifleman Moalosi Albert Mokhothu who died during a firefight with rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) last week.
Mokhothu‚ 27‚ was a member of the Force Intervention Brigade (FIB) of the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the Congo (MONSCO) with the responsibility of ensuring peace and stability in the eastern DRC.
According to a statement from the SANDF‚ Mokhothu's name will be inscribed on the force's wall of remembrance‚ acknowledging him as "a hero who paid the ultimate price whilst contributing towards peace‚ stability and prosperity in the continent".
"This gallant soldier performed duties not only for the benefit of the people of the Republic of South Africa‚ but for the entire African continent. Therefore‚ his death was definitely not in vain."
Affectionately known as "Bush" by his colleagues and friends‚ Mokhothu had wanted to become a successful paratrooper and then fulfil his childhood aspiration of becoming a presidential bodyguard‚ the statement said.
"As a community member‚ he was involved in various projects with the youth of Botshabelo Township. These projects included mentoring and training young people in stage drama and street soccer. He also single-handedly established a youth traditional dance group known as the Bokamoso Traditional Dance Group that immensely contributed to youth skill empowerment in Botshabelo."
The SANDF will receive and hand over Mokhothu's mortal remains to his family on Friday during a ceremonial parade at the Waterkloof Air Force Base.
The acting Chief of the SANDF‚ Lieutenant General Zimpande Msimang‚ accompanied by the Chief of the South African Army‚ Lieutenant General Lindile Yam‚ will officiate.
- TMG Digital
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