SANDF deployment a measured decision, says President Cyril Ramaphosa
President reassures South Africans on military support in fight against illegal mining
President Cyril Ramaphosa has reassured South Africans that the deployment of the South African National Defence Force SANDF within the country is both justified and carefully considered.
In his weekly newsletter, released after the Armed Forces Day commemoration in Limpopo on Saturday, 21 February 2026, the President addressed growing public debate around the military’s role in domestic operations. The deployment follows his announcement during the State of the Nation Address that the SANDF would assist the South African Police Service SAPS in combating illegal mining and gang violence in Gauteng and the Western Cape.
A decision rooted in history and responsibility
Ramaphosa acknowledged South Africa’s painful past, where military force was misused during apartheid. He emphasised that any modern deployment must be grounded in constitutional principles and clear necessity.
“Given our history, where the apartheid state sent the army into townships to violently suppress opposition, it is important that we do not deploy the SANDF inside the country to deal with domestic threats without good reason.
This recent deployment has become necessary due to a surge in violent organised crime that threatens the safety of our people and the authority of the state.
That is why the SANDF will be deployed in support of the SAPS, operating under police command, with clear rules of engagement and for specific time limited objectives.”
The President explained that during the mobilisation, soldiers may “provide protection in high-risk operations, or to support cordon and search operations against armed criminals.” They may also secure critical infrastructure, allowing SAPS officers to focus on investigations and prosecutions.
Importantly, the SANDF will operate under police command with defined objectives and a limited timeframe, reinforcing that this is a support mission and not a militarisation of law enforcement.
Coordinated crackdown on organised crime
The deployment forms part of a broader strategy to dismantle criminal networks. In addition to military support, government is strengthening anti-gang units and illegal mining task teams. SAPS is also working closely with the National Prosecuting Authority in multidisciplinary teams targeting the leadership structures, finances, firearms and logistics of organised crime syndicates.
This coordinated approach signals government’s determination to restore safety and reinforce the authority of the state in areas hardest hit by violent crime.
A helping hand beyond security
The SANDF’s role extends far beyond crime fighting. Over the years, it has supported South Africa during national emergencies and development initiatives.
During the COVID 19 pandemic, the SANDF enforced disaster regulations, safeguarded borders, supported anti-crime efforts and established field hospitals. More recently, in floods affecting parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, soldiers assisted with evacuations, infrastructure repairs and temporary shelter construction.
Through Project Owethu launched in Limpopo during Armed Forces Day, the SANDF delivered healthcare services to more than 50,000 people in underserved communities. Its Welisizwe Rural Bridges initiative has improved access and connectivity for rural residents, while border operations continue to combat smuggling and illegal crossings.
Strengthening the defence force for the future
President Ramaphosa acknowledged financial pressures facing the SANDF but confirmed that government is working to close funding gaps and enhance operational readiness.
Applications have opened for the 2027 Military Skills Development System, offering young South Africans training opportunities across the army, air force, navy and military health service. The initiative aims to rejuvenate the force while equipping youth with valuable skills.
Reflecting on the SANDF’s formation in 1994, the President underscored its transformation from an instrument of apartheid repression into a constitutionally accountable, diverse defence force committed to democratic values and international humanitarian law.
“As we work together to overcome the challenges facing our armed forces, let us not lose sight of their immense contribution to building a democratic nation in which all our people are safe and secure,” President Ramaphosa concluded.
