Defence Minister Angie Motshekga commits to modernising SANDF despite budget constraints

Minister of Defence and Veterans Angie Motshekga says South Africa must build a “capable, ethical, and developmental state” through a modern, resilient, and combat-ready defence force, even amid tight fiscal conditions.

Presenting her Budget Vote speech for the 2025/26 financial year, Minister Motshekga told Parliament that the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) remains committed to safeguarding national sovereignty and contributing to peace and stability in the region.

Acknowledging the constraints, she said: "In spite of our ongoing financial constraints, which badly affect our planning and operations, we will continue to reprioritise and do more with the little that we have received or which is at our disposal,” Motshekga said.

Motshekga confirmed that all 2,250 SANDF troops deployed under Operation Tiber in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have returned home.

“Since the announcement of Summit DRC base withdrawal by our regional body SADC, all 2,250 members are back home,” she said.

Motshekga expressed gratitude to neighbouring countries, stating, "I want to take this opportunity to thank the Government of Rwanda for allowing us a safe passage through their territory into Tanzania, and further wish to thank the Governments of Tanzania, Malawi, and the parties involved in the safe withdrawal of our members."

The Department of Defence has been allocated R57.103 billion for 2025/26. Of this, R36 billion (64%) is for compensation of employees. Key allocations include: R2.7 billion for accommodation and municipal services; R2.5 billion for peacekeeping operations; R1.4 billion for transfers to AMSCO; R487 million for SADC contributions; R480 million for repair and maintenance; R300 million for emergency and day-to-day maintenance; and R200 million for border security vehicles and tech. Only R12 billion remains for all other operations.

Motshekga emphasised urgent efforts to modernise SANDF equipment and revamp the local defence industry.

"This will include ensuring that our soldiers are properly equipped with uniforms, boots, protective gear, habitable facilities, catering for the needs of all, including women soldiers and persons with disability."

She also spoke on the modernisation of equipment and industry, affirming that the department is working hard to "resuscitate the South African defence force industry to really partner with us" and reposition SADI as "a very important asset ready for expansion to drive national development."

She also noted that the department is focused on partnerships with DENEL, AMSCO, local and international partners to build capabilities, boost exports, and create jobs.

“DENEL is very critical in the maintenance and support of the South African National Defence Force,” Motshekga stressed.

She pledged to tackle procurement irregularities and modernise systems.

“Procurement and human resources irregularities will be addressed through strengthened internal controls, transparent systems, [and] regulatory oversight.”

She announced ongoing digitisation efforts aimed at improving governance and restoring public trust.

The Department of Military Veterans has been allocated R878 million for 2025/26.

Since 2023, 407 military veterans have received pensions worth R217 million. Motshekga highlighted a database verification project and the repatriation of fallen heroes’ remains.

“An audited report of the 2024 financial year indicates that 7,738 learners and students are provided with education support and continue their studies,” she said.

The department aims to roll out military veterans’ pensions to 9,600 qualifying veterans this year.

Moreover, Motshekga said in line with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s directive, the Department is reviewing long-term defence strategies to build “a strong, resilient force with enhanced military capabilities.”

Motshekga also highlighted the important role of the Military Ombudsman as a key instrument for civil-military relations and oversight, saying it “continues to be an important instrument for civil-military relations and civil oversight, as well as promoting good labour.”

She announced that South Africa will be hosting a conference on ombuds institutions on the 8th and 9th of October, welcoming participation from other provinces and ombuds institutions. This reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability, and fostering good relations within the Defence Force and with the broader community.

“We wish to restore public trust, improve departmental effectiveness, and ensure that the Department of Defence can fulfil its constitutional mandate to protect the Republic of South Africa,'' said Motshekga. 

hope.ntanzi@iol.co.za

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