Watch VideoRamaphosa 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. PresidentCyril Ramaphosa has honoured members of theSouth 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.

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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.

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