Condolences after SA soldier dies in S Sudan

The government is working with South Sudan to ensure the repatriation of the body of Warrant Officer Muzwandile Joel Sithole, the Presidency said.

Johannesburg - Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday conveyed the condolences of President Jacob Zuma, the government and people of South Africa to the family and friends of Warrant Officer Muzwandile Joel Sithole who died in South Sudan.

Sithole died on Friday while on official duty in Juba, the capital of South Sudan, the Presidency said in a statement without providing details of the cause of death.

Sithole was part of an advanced security detail deployed to Juba to prepare for Ramaphosa's visit to South Sudan scheduled for Monday.

“The South African government is working around the clock in conjunction with the government of South Sudan to ensure the repatriation of the mortal remains of Warrant Officer Sithole back to South Africa Tuesday,” said the Presidency.

The government has made arrangements for the members of the bereaved family to fly to Juba to assist in the repatriation process.

“Thoughts and prayers of Deputy President Ramaphosa reach out to his widow Sibongile Sithole and their families during this moment of their lives, conscious of the pain and sorrow that the untimely death of their beloved son has brought to bear on their entire families.”

African News Agency