Ramaphosa honours SANDF on Armed Forces Day
President Cyril Ramaphosa honours the SANDF in Thohoyandou, Limpopo, paying tribute to their service, bravery, and sacrifice while commemorating the 1917 SS Mendi tragedy that inspires unity and courage today.
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President Cyril Ramaphosa has honoured members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) at Armed Forces Day in Thohoyandou, recognising the service of men and women in uniform who have defended South Africa’s democracy for more than 30 years.
Speaking in Vhembe District, Ramaphosa said the SANDF reflected the diversity of the nation, uniting people of different identities and origins in shared purpose. He said the armed forces advance the values of the Constitution and safeguard the fundamental rights of South Africans.
The annual commemoration coincides with the anniversary of the sinking of the SS Mendi on 21 February 1917, when 616 South African troops lost their lives while en route to France during the First World War.
Ramaphosa said it was recorded that the soldiers met their end “not with cries of fear, but with a death dance of defiance and unity.”
“The tragedy of SS Mendi reminds us of the importance of unity and solidarity, that despite great peril, those brave soldiers stood together as they faced their fate. Their courage and spirit continue to inspire us today.”
Armed Forces Day, the President said, also honours soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice both abroad and in internal operations.
“This day is a tribute to the courage of those who wear uniform, and we bow our heads in memory of those who never returned from the horizon,” he said.
He extended condolences to families and comrades of those who died, and told serving members: “Your sacrifices, bravery and commitment are deeply valued by a grateful nation.”
Ramaphosa also acknowledged the SANDF’s recent role in responding to natural disasters. Following heavy rains and flooding in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and neighbouring Mozambique, the defence force assisted in rescue operations, infrastructure repair, water purification, and the establishment of temporary shelters for affected communities.
“I extend a special word of thanks to the Premiers, provincial agencies, local authorities and SANDF members who have been on the ground since the start of the devastation,” he said.
As part of Armed Forces Day activities, the SANDF demonstrated its developmental capabilities through community engagement projects.
The South African Military Health Service’s Project Owethu provided medical services across Sekhukhune, Waterberg, and Vhembe districts, covering general healthcare, mental health, ophthalmology, oral health, and orthopaedic care.
Over 85 cataract procedures were performed at Elim Hospital, restoring sight for many elderly patients. The SANDF also visited schools to promote patriotism and introduce learners to careers in the military.
Ramaphosa described Armed Forces Day as more than a commemoration, calling it “a real-time simulation of the SANDF's ability to mobilise personnel and equipment across the country, modelling various threat scenarios in defence of our territorial integrity.”
He said the day had evolved from a solemn remembrance into a demonstration of national pride and military capability.
Paying homage to historical figures, Ramaphosa told soldiers that they continue the legacy of leaders such as King Makhado, the Lion of the North, and King Thohoyandou, as well as those who fought at the Battle of Mutale River.
“Each one of you has picked up the spears of our fallen heroes and heroines. You are the shield that ensures our people know lasting peace, security and stability,” he said.
Ramaphosa said the military operates in an era of great geopolitical tension. He reaffirmed South Africa’s policy of non-alignment, stating: “We refuse to be drawn into the spheres of influence of competing global powers.
''We assert our strategic autonomy and sovereignty. And we conduct all our operations under strict civilian oversight and in absolute adherence to international humanitarian law.”
He said the battlefield is shifting from traditional weaponry to high-tech autonomous and unmanned systems such as drones, digital warfare, and artificial intelligence, requiring a SANDF that is responsive, relevant, and agile.
He acknowledged public resource constraints but said additional budget allocations would address funding gaps and improve operational efficiency.
Ramaphosa said South Africa would draw down its troop contribution to the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) in a phased and well-orchestrated manner.
“This will be done in a phased and well-orchestrated manner to ensure the safe return of our troops and their equipment,” he said, while pledging continued support for continental peace and security initiatives under the UN, African Union, and SADC.
He also confirmed the deployment of SANDF elements to support the South African Police Service in operations against criminal gangs, illegal mining, and other threats.
“From the Cape Flats to Gauteng, our message is clear: the rule of law will be enforced and the safety of our citizens will be secured,” he said, adding that the deployment aims to ensure children can go to school without fear.
Addressing the youth, Ramaphosa encouraged them to consider the SANDF as both a career and a service to the nation.
“Join the SANDF for the love of your country. By serving your people, you build your own future and you contribute to a better nation,” he said.
He urged all soldiers to continue upholding the values of their predecessors and defending South Africa’s peace and security.
“May the memory of SS Mendi and all those who served our country inspire us to work towards a brighter future for South Africa and her people,” he said.
hope.ntanzi@iol.co.za
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