MPs blame DRC deaths on defence budget shortfalls

During a debate in the National Assembly on Thursday, MPs warned that South Africa’s security is at serious risk, citing outdated equipment, low morale, and a lack of long-term planning.

The debate comes just days after the government confirmed a phased withdrawal of South African troops from the war-torn eastern region of the DRC.

The soldiers had been part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), deployed in December 2023 to assist during a renewed offensive by the M23 armed group.

The mission ended in mid-March following the deaths of 17 SADC troops, most of them South African, during attacks by M23 rebels in January.

MPs criticised the state of the SANDF, saying the force is aging and ill-equipped, with many aircraft either grounded, broken, or outdated.

There is little optimism that next week’s national budget will provide the necessary relief.

Joint Standing Committee on Defence co-chairperson Malusi Gigaba said it’s time for a complete rethink of the country’s defence posture.

"In our review of the South African National Defence Force, we are mindful of our historic mission to promote peace both at home and abroad, achieved through dialogue rather than armed conflict,” said Gigaba.

"However, when malicious forces threaten our sovereignty or that of our neighbours, we must be ready to defend ourselves decisively.”

Gigaba said the review is intended to critically assess the state of the SANDF and present a realistic vision for its future.

"A vibrant state must pursue renewal and modernization in an ever-changing world while remaining true to its constitutional obligation, to defend the country, protect its people, and uphold its sovereignty.”

He said that now more than ever, a disciplined and highly competent defence force is vital for national peace and stability.

"Our armed forces are the ultimate guarantors of our sovereignty, peace, and territorial integrity, true guardians of our democratic state. This report reflects Parliament’s responsibility to ensure that our military is fully equipped and supported to fulfil its constitutional mandate.”

Gigaba emphasised the SANDF’s broader role in fostering peace, not just within South Africa’s borders, but across the region and continent.

"They are expected to meaningfully contribute to the protection of our people, the upholding of our shared values, and the advancement of our nation’s prosperity.”

He said the 2023 midterm review highlights the fact that the defence force cannot operate in isolation and underscores the need for long-term planning, sufficient resources, and ongoing transformation.

"Subsequent events in the DRC should serve as a catalyst for Parliament to engage more frequently on our country’s defence priorities. This should ignite a broader conversation about the kind of defence force we envision for South Africa.”

The report also warned Parliament about the declining state of the SANDF and the risks this poses. Gigaba said the defence force must evolve in line with the National Development Plan and the 2015 Defence Review.

"It is essential that the report be aligned with those frameworks, both of which advocate for a defence force that is responsive to modern trends, technologically advanced, and above all, people-centred.”

Gigaba added that although refinement of the 2015 Defence Review is still pending, the time may have come to draft a new White Paper to map the country’s defence strategy.

"Nearly a decade has passed since the review was adopted. This is an opportune moment to reflect on progress made despite funding constraints and aging infrastructure.”

He called for sustainable and strategic defence funding, including the implementation of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s 2024 directive to increase defence spending gradually to 1.5% of GDP.

"This would strengthen our defence capabilities and stimulate manufacturing, research, and broader economic growth. But funding alone is not enough, transformation is critical.”

Gigaba highlighted the importance of gender equity and career pathways to attract young South Africans.

"The Military Skills Development Syste has helped thousands of young people, many from disadvantaged backgrounds, acquire vital skills and a renewed sense of identity. It is more than a youth employment programme, it is a tool for nation-building and leadership development.”

He also pointed to the SANDF’s role in continental peacekeeping operations, from Mozambique to the DRC, as a strategic necessity rather than charity.

"Instability in the region threatens our own national security and economic development. Our strategic approach must be grounded in a firm commitment to ‘silencing the guns’, a moral and continental imperative.”

"To achieve that, we must invest in early warning systems, mediation efforts, border protection, and citizen well-being, so that no child in Africa grows up in the shadow of a soldier’s rifle.”

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