Question NW2336 to the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans

Reply:

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is ready and able to protect the Republic against any international terror threat.

The continued decline in the budget has had an adverse effect on the department and SANDF capabilities over the MTEF. The constrained fiscal environment has forced the Department to look at prioritising all activities for optimising effectiveness and efficiency to all aspects of the defence organisation in the quest to achieve our Constitutional mandate and responsibility as prescribed in section 200 (2) of the Constitution, which is to defend and protect the Republic of South Africa, its national sovereignty, territorial integrity and its people in accordance with the constitution and the principles of international law regulating the use of force.

In my Defence budget vote of May 2023, I have noted that a revised Level of Defence Ambition and a revised Defence Strategic Trajectory must be developed to provide a realistic and sustainable future-orientated defence value-proposition, cognisant of current fiscal realities, that delivers against the constitutional mandate of Defence, South Africa’s national interests and Government’s priorities and risk-appetite.

Furthermore, work is also continuing on the five military priorities that were outlined in my 2022 Budget Speech which contribute to the readiness and ability of the SANDF to protect and defend the Republic:

• Priority 1: Promoting Nation Building through the pursuance of a common national identity coupled to values and ethics that reinforce such an identity.

• Priority 2: Safeguarding the Nation and building internal stability by strengthening the institutions of the State and growing the economy.

• Priority 3: Securing Regional Development by creating conditions conducive to regional security and stability as well as increased investment that drives regional growth and development through consumer economies.

• Priority 4: Enhancing Cyber Resilience through a focused strategy that enhances the resilience of critical digital infrastructure.

• Priority 5: Enhancing the Hard Power Capability of the SANDF through a small but core major combat capability that is relevant and ready to meet future conflict challenges.

It is vital to note that the SANDF has demonstrated numerous capabilities that it is ready, willing and able to respond to international, regional and internal threats. The SANDF has participated in various peacekeeping missions under the United Nations, African Union, and Southern African Development Community, showcasing its ability to work alongside other forces and contribute to regional security efforts. The SANDF has also conducted joint military exercises and training programs with international partners to enhance its readiness. While there are challenges, these efforts indicate a willingness to address security concerns and improve the SANDF's readiness against international terror threats. However, continued investment in funding, training, and equipment upgrades will be crucial to ensure the SANDF's ability to protect the Republic effectively.