Premier Dr Ramathuba pays tribute to Limpopo’s fallen soldier
Limpopo premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba on Saturday paid tribute to Staff Sergeant Shwahlane Theophilus Seepe who was one of the 14 soldiers killed in Eastern DRC. Seepe was laid to rest on Saturday at Ga-Tsesane Schoonoord, Sekhukhune.
He is one of the five soldiers from Limpopo who were buried at their respective villages on Saturday. The other four were Corporal Matome Justice Malesa [Mashishimale, Phalaborwa], Corporal Rinae Nemavhulani [Khubvi Block B, Thohoyandou], Lance Corporal Tseke Moffat Molapo [Moroke Village, Burgersfort], and Lance Corporal Metse Stanley Ramaswiswi [Mokomene, Ga-Ramokgopa].
ALSO READ: Funeral details of SA soldiers who died in DRC released
The official funeral service of Seepe took place at Peter Nchabeleng Hall in the Makhuduthamaga Municipality. Some of the dignitaries who attended include the Premier, Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motswaledi, Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego, and Sekhukhune Executive Mayor Minah Bahula.
Premier Dr Ramathuba encouraged the youth to follow in Sergeant Seepe’s footsteps, saying his death was not in vain because he stood for peace and justice.
TRIBUTE BY LIMPOPO PREMIER DR PHOPHI RAMATHUBA TO FALLEN SOLDIER SERGEANT SHWAHLANE THEOPHILUS SEEPE
“Today, we bid farewell not only to a son of the soil but to a beacon of bravery and a guardian of peace. His love for his country was unparalleled,” said Premier Dr Ramathuba.
“His bravery is etched into the annals of history, alongside the names of countless men and women who have laid down their lives so others may live in peace. At just 41 years old, we know that his story was far from finished.
“As a province, we had anticipated his continued contributions in shaping the future of our armed forces. His untimely departure has robbed us of a great soldier, a great leader, and an example to many young South Africans who aspire to serve with honour and integrity.”
Meanwhile, two other soldiers will be buried on Sunday, 23 February. Rifleman Calvin Louis Moagi will be laid to rest in Trichardtsdal, Sekororo while rifleman Sabatane Richard Chokoe will be buried at Ga-Mokgokong in Ga-Matlala.
Rifleman Derrick Maluleke was the first to be buried in Giyani last weekend.
