The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will commemorate the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers on Thursday at De Brug in Bloemfontein, paying tribute to uniformed and civilian personnel who have served in some of the world’s most volatile regions.
The event, which honours the dedication, bravery, and sacrifice of peacekeepers, comes as South Africa reflects on its own contributions to UN missions—including the recent deployment of troops in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where 14 SANDF members lost their lives earlier this year.
A Legacy of Service
UN peacekeeping operations date back to 1948, when the first mission was established in the Middle East. Since then, more than two million men and women have served under the UN flag across over 70 missions worldwide. South Africa has been an active participant, with its soldiers deployed in multiple peacekeeping efforts across the African continent.
Today’s Commemoration
The ceremony, led by the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans alongside the Military Command Council, will include a wreath-laying ceremony attended by UN representatives, senior SANDF officials, and families of fallen soldiers.
A reporter reported that the families of the deceased peacekeepers will be given flowers and an opportunity to place them beside their loved ones’ names on a memorial wall. The wall lists all missions in which South Africa has participated, including the most recent losses in the DRC.
Admiral Tshabalala, speaking ahead of the event, acknowledged the sacrifices of those deployed in the DRC but noted that the SANDF could not confirm a timeline for the full withdrawal of remaining troops, despite earlier expectations of a return this month.
A Day of Remembrance
The commemoration, set to begin at 10:00, will also feature military displays and tributes to fallen heroes and heroines. Families of the deceased have been arriving in Bloemfontein, with many having collected accreditation ahead of the emotional ceremony.
As the world marks the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, South Africa stands in solidarity with nations honouring those who have given their lives in the pursuit of global peace.
