WATCH | Motshekga’s R57bn push to power up SANDF

SANDF

Cape Town – Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga has pledged to modernise the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), restore public confidence, and unlock economic growth through a revitalised local defence industry.

Presenting her department’s R57 billion Budget Vote in Parliament on Wednesday, Motshekga said 64% of the budget — amounting to R36 billion — is allocated to the compensation of employees.

Despite fiscal constraints, she stressed that key priorities include operational readiness, equipment repairs, and improving the living and working conditions of soldiers.

“We will continue to reprioritise and do more with the little that we have received. This includes ensuring that our soldiers are properly equipped with uniforms, protective gear, habitable facilities, and support during deployment,” she said.

Restoring SANDF capability and public confidence 

To boost operational efficiency and address capability gaps, the department has allocated:

  • R2.7 billion for accommodation, leases, and municipal services

  • R2.5 billion for peacekeeping operations

  • R1.4 billion for Armscor (AMSCO) transfers

  • R487 million for regional peacekeeping and SADC-related assets

  • R480 million for maintenance and defence system repairs

  • R200 million to enhance border security technologies and vehicle fleets

Motshekga acknowledged the impact of budget limitations but said reforms are underway. These include modernising administrative systems, digitising operations, and tackling procurement and HR irregularities through tighter internal controls and regulatory oversight.

She also outlined a plan to reposition the defence industry as a key player in economic recovery by integrating it into the national industrial policy framework. This move aims to attract investment, strengthen exports, and grow local manufacturing.

“We are working hard to resuscitate the South African defence force industry to really partner with us. The centrality of Denel is very critical in the maintenance and support of the SANDF,” Motshekga said.

Partnerships with local companies and international investors will be prioritised, while Armscor is expected to play a bigger role in upgrading and maintaining defence equipment.

Focus on military veterans 

Motshekga also tabled the R878 million budget for the Department of Military Veterans, with 63% directed toward benefits such as pensions, education, housing, and healthcare. Since 2023, more than 437 veterans have received pensions worth over R217 million, while 7,738 learners and students are being supported through education benefits.

A team has been deployed to verify and clean the veterans’ database and address administrative backlogs. The department is also committed to repatriating the remains of liberation struggle veterans.

“Our focus remains on building a modern, effective, and resilient defence force. Governance, accountability, and capability are central to our strategy. We must protect the Republic while supporting the national interest,” said Motshekga.

Eastern DRC withdrawal and regional cooperation 

Motshekga confirmed that all 2,250 SANDF members previously deployed in eastern DRC have returned home. This follows a deadly incident earlier this year in which 14 South African soldiers were killed during a rebel offensive by M23 forces near Goma.

All military equipment has been withdrawn and is currently being verified in Tanzania before returning to South Africa. Motshekga thanked Rwanda, Tanzania, and Malawi for facilitating the safe withdrawal of troops and equipment.

South Africa will also host an international ombudsman conference in October to promote transparency, oversight, and public trust in the defence sector.

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