Limpopo’s Cooperative Governance MEC, Basikopo Makamu, has paid tribute to the youngest of the 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers killed in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

28-year-old Rifleman Calvin Louis Moagi is being laid to rest at Ga-Sekororo outside Tzaneen.

Another deceased soldier, Rifleman Richard Chokoe, is also being laid to rest in the Moletjie area, west of Polokwane.

Rifleman Richard Chokoe from Mokgokong village in Limpopo being laid to rest at a local cemetery. Defence Minister Angie Motshekga is attending his funeral. #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/BZm3eLqj0q

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Eight of the 14 soldiers come from Limpopo.

Makamu says the 14 soldiers must be honoured and recognised for their sacrifices in pursuit of peace and stability on the continent.

“We are profoundly saddened by the loss of the eight of our own from Limpopo among the 14 fallen soldiers. These brave men exhibit the spirit of service and sacrifice; embodying the values that our province holds. Their courage and dedication to protecting our nation will never be forgotten. Their sacrifice in the pursuit of peace and stability into our continent is an honour that we must recognised and celebrated.”

Also speaking at Moagi’s funeral service, SANDF Lieutenant General Malungisa Sitshongaye says they’re determined to continue with the peace keeping mission in Africa.

“We are more determined than before to see what we have started. We are not going to allow neither rebel militants or any counter to clear or to detour us from continuing to a more stable peace Africa. Whether they died on foreign land in the heat of the battle, their service to this country is the greatest gift to all of us. Together will forge ahead to the unknown while upholding our mission.”

DRC Conflict | Rifleman Calvin Moagi funeral under way: