The body of Late Private Losedi Boitumelo Monaisa of South African Battalion was yesterday flown home after a solemn farewell ceremony organized in her honour by her colleagues of the African Union-United Nations hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID).

“Late Pte Moaisa died under very distressing and sad circumstances…she did not lose her life in combat nor was she a victim of banditry or carjacking, but met her demise after being stung by a scorpion,” lamented UNAMID Principal Deputy Joint Special Representative (PDJSR) Mr. Henry Anyidoho.

Mr. Anyidoho conveyed on behalf of the Joint Special Representative, Mr. Rudophe Adada and the UNAMID leadership profound and heart-felt condolences to the family of Private. Monaisa, and to the government, Defense Ministry and Armed Forces of the Republic of South Africa.

He lauded the continued support and contribution of South Africa in the quest for peace and security to Darfur and to end the sufferings of its people. He also applauded the bravely and gallantry of the South African military and police contingents and stressed that the sacrifices they have made and continue to make will be enshrined in the annals of the history of the African Union and United Nations to find a peaceful solution to the Darfur conflict.

In his tribute to Late Monaisa, UNAMID Force Commander, General Martin Luther Agwai, lamented the painful circumstances of Private Monaisa’s death which he said made it particularly painful. Gen. Agwai stated that within the brief period she spent in the mission, Pvte Monaisa discharged her duties with unqualified zeal, competence and professionalism. “We lack enough words to re-assure and console her waiting family and colleagues in South Africa,” Gen. Agwai said.

The FC emphasized that the best way we can mourn Private Monaisa is to forge ahead and emulate her exemplary service. “There is no amount of grief or tears that can bring her back…she had dutifully completed her service here on earth, we look forward to meeting her one day,” Gen. Agwai said.

Late Pte. Monaisa aged 21, was stung by a scorpion on 19 September 2008. Despite the valiant efforts of the medical team to save her life, she succumbed to the venom of the scorpion leaving behind a six year old daughter.

UNAMID Communication and Public Information Division Contacts
Kemal Saïki, Director; saiki@un.org – tel.: +249 (0) 92 244 3529; mobile: +249 (0) 92 241 0020
Noureddine Mezni, Spokesperson; n.mezni@un.org – Mobile: +249 (0) 91 274 276 -+249 (0) 91 253 8420