**Heartfelt Tribute to a Fallen Soldier**
**Heartfelt Tribute
A South African woman has taken to social media to share her grief after losing her partner, a soldier in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), who tragically lost his life while deployed in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Her touching tribute quickly gained attention, with many South Africans offering words of comfort and sharing their own experiences of having loved ones in the military.
**Difficult Conditions for SANDF Troops in the DRC**
The SANDF has been facing challenging conditions in the DRC, where they have been deployed as part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) military mission to stabilize the conflict-ridden eastern region. The incursion of the M23 militia has intensified violence, leading to the loss of 14 South African soldiers. The news has left many families devastated, highlighting the risks faced by military personnel serving abroad.
## **Emotional TikTok Tribute**
The grieving woman, known by her TikTok handle @bonny20191, shared a moving video compilation featuring her late partner. The clips included moments of him proudly wearing his SANDF uniform, enjoying life, and sharing a heartfelt video call with her. The post quickly gained traction, with thousands expressing their sympathy and sharing their personal stories of loved ones serving in the armed forces.
### **Watch the Emotional Video Below**
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## **Mzansi Offers Support and Condolences**
South Africans came together in the comments to console the mourning woman, with many sharing their own painful experiences of losing loved ones in military service. Some comments included:
– **@KeoS-2017**: “Sorry my love… We are in the same boat. I’m burying mine on Saturday 😭😭. God will pull us through. ❤️🕯”
– **@UNIVERSE**: “Sorry, my baby is also in the DRC. He lost his fingers, and his face is damaged 😭😭😭.”
– **@JessicaStrydom**: “So sorry for your loss. My husband was also one of those who lost their lives. I will pray for you and your family.”
– **@Commissar Azania**: “May you find healing, sis. I worked with him for 10 years. What a wonderful man—always happy and vibing. He loved singing, and everyone loved him.”
– **@MashonisaAndries😊**: “People must understand that being a soldier is a do-or-die situation. May his soul rest in eternal peace. 🙏”
– **@esmerenciasmit**: “My cousin also died there. Sorry, love. 😭😭”
## **Ongoing Conflict and Calls for Action**
SANDF troops have been stationed in the DRC since mid-2024 as part of a peacekeeping mission. With over 2,000 soldiers deployed, the operation has been met with controversy, as many South Africans have opposed the mission due to the increasing number of casualties. Prominent figures, including media personality Ntsiki Mazwai, have called for the soldiers to be brought home safely.
The SANDF has since announced plans to repatriate the remains of the 14 fallen soldiers. Meanwhile, videos of SANDF troops singing and dancing while on duty have circulated online, showcasing their resilience despite the dangers they face.
## **Final Thoughts**
The heartbreaking loss of the SANDF soldier has sparked national conversations about the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families. As South Africa mourns, the country continues to stand in solidarity with those who have lost their loved ones in service.
