By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
22 February 2025- The South African Defence Force (SANDF) soldier, Lance Bombardier Itumeleng Moreo (37) from Extension 39, in Mahikeng, was described as a loving, caring and a disciplined person. Moreo was one of 14 SANDF soldiers who died in a fierce fight against M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) two weeks ago.
Moreo was accorded a state funeral and laid to rest at Matlalong cemetery in Mahikeng on Saturday. His wife, Kefilwe Moreo, who is a police officer said she will miss him.
“We dated back in 2008, while we were still in high school. In 2012, we were blessed with our first child. We got married in 2017, and were blessed with our second child in 2019.
“I never doubted his love. He never wanted to see us crying. For the past weeks, I have been missing his hugs. Itumeleng was a very disciplined person, who wanted his children to be disciplined as well,” she said.
Kefilwe said Itumeleng loved them in such a way that she will never forget. She said she learnt a lot from him.
“I remember the time I was at the SAPS academy, I was struggling with shooting. I could not align and I did not know what to do. Even if my instructors tried to explain, I could not do it. However, I managed in the end because of Itumeleng. On 27 January 2025, I spoke to him.
“Later on, Itumeleng sent a video telling me how much he loved us and we should never forget that. On 28 January 2025, it was my birthday and I received a present from him not knowing he is no more,” she said.
Kefilwe said she was worried because it was unlike Itumeleng not to send her a happy birthday message. She said, however, she thought it might be network problems.
“On 29 January 2025, I received a message telling me that he had passed away. I just want to thank God for the life of this man. Through Itumeleng, I received everything a woman can wish for.
“We had so many plans for this year together, and I am not sure if I will manage alone,” said Kefilwe.
Meanwhile, the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi said: “We meet here today on a sombre mood. We bid farewell to a husband, father, brother, son and a true compatriot of our beloved continent, who dedicated his life to the struggles of African people.
“Moreo died pursuing a noble course. To see the people of Eastern DRC living in peace and their lives going forward. So, I want to take this opportunity and extend my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of this compatriot.”
The Guardian 