Question NW228 to the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
25 November 2024 - NW228
Douglas, Mr WM to ask the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans
Given the increasing number of casualties to troops deployed in African peacekeeping missions, what plans does her department intend to undertake to deal with the lack of resources and logistical support for the SA National Defence Force personnel?
Reply:
There is no increasing number of South African troops dying in African peacekeeping missions. The losses incurred have been from enemy fire and measures are and have been taken to ensure the safety of our troops cognisant they are deployed in war zones.
The matter of lack of resources is being addressed through requests for additional funding from government. These have been obtained from National Treasury. An amount of R2.4 billion was required to respond fully to the operational requirements in the DRC and Mozambique (back loading of equipment). R2 billion was allocated for the deployment in the DRC (short of Rm 300) and R750 million for back loading of equipment and return of personnel from Mozambique. With funds allocated the DRC situation is receiving close attention and equipment being back loaded.
The defence establishment is fully aware of the fiscal constraints the country is facing and is seeking to do the best with whatever is allocated for ordered military commitments.
In addition, we are developing a new level of ambition on the defence of the RSA. This will result in a reviewed military strategy, consistent with the direction of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the SANDF that the defence function must be funded at 1,5% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), It is hoped that new funding consistent with our ordered commitments will be realised.