On Thursday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the keynote address at the Armed Forces Day celebrations in Limpopo, highlighting the importance of the country’s defense force and honoring its men and women who bravely serve their country.
The event, held at the Thohoyandou Rugby Stadium, was attended by thousands of military personnel, government officials, dignitaries, and members of the public. The theme for this year’s celebration was “Unifying the South African National Defence Force for a better future for all.”
In his address, President Ramaphosa praised the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) for its role in protecting the country and contributing to peacekeeping efforts on the African continent. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by soldiers, who often have to leave their families behind to fulfill their duties.
“Today, we celebrate the men and women who have dedicated their lives to serve and protect our nation. They are the pillars of our democracy and critical in ensuring stability and security in our country,” President Ramaphosa said.
He also highlighted the SANDF’s involvement in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, praising their efforts in assisting with the distribution of vaccines and providing essential services to communities in need.
“As we continue our fight against the pandemic, our defense force has once again shown its commitment to serving the people of South Africa. They have been on the frontlines, providing vital support and assistance in the battle against COVID-19,” the President stated.
President Ramaphosa also used the occasion to address some of the challenges facing the SANDF, including gender-based violence, corruption, and the need for modernization. He emphasized the importance of addressing these issues and creating a more inclusive and diverse force.
“We must continue to work towards gender equality and address the scourge of gender-based violence within our ranks. We must also ensure that the SANDF is free of corruption and complacency. And we must modernize our defense force to meet the challenges of the 21st century,” President Ramaphosa affirmed.
The Armed Forces Day celebrations not only serve as a day to honor and recognize the hard work and dedication of the SANDF but also as an opportunity to showcase South Africa’s military capabilities. This year, the showcase included an impressive display of weapons and military equipment, as well as a variety of military demonstrations.
The President ended his address by reminding the SANDF personnel of their importance in safeguarding South Africa’s democracy and unity.
“As we celebrate Armed Forces Day, let us remember that our defense force is a symbol of our national unity. It is a unifying force that is composed of men and women from all walks of life, backgrounds, and cultures. Let us continue to work together to build a better future for all South Africans,” Ramaphosa concluded.
The Armed Forces Day celebrations were a significant reminder of the critical role played by the SANDF in protecting the country and promoting peace and stability. President Ramaphosa’s words of praise and encouragement will undoubtedly motivate and inspire the men and women of the defense force to continue their excellent work in service of the nation.
