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The Public Servants Association (PSA) welcomes the recent announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa that government will allocate additional resources to the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
 
The President made this commitment in his address at Armed Forces Day in Limpopo, where he acknowledged years of chronic underfunding and affirmed that government will continue to allocate the necessary resources to equip the SANDF so it can properly defend the nation. This pledge comes at a critical time when the SANDF faces rising operational demands, an evolving security environment, and resource constraints that have long hindered its ability to fulfil its constitutional mandate. The PSA recognises the significance of the President’s acknowledgement that modern warfare now requires advanced technology, agility and improved capability, all of which depend on sustainable, increased investment.
 
The PSA, however, cautions that talk alone is not enough. The PSA has, for years, raised concerns about the impact of budget cuts on military personnel, infrastructure, equipment, and operational readiness. Whilst the President’s words are encouraging, the reality of SANDF members related to equipment shortages, strained working conditions, and inadequate support, will only improve when financial commitments translate into budget allocations, procurement, and implementation. This commitment cannot be like the announcement of the University of Science and Innovation in 2020, and to date, South Africa is still waiting.
 
The PSA calls on the President and National Treasury to move swiftly from statements to delivery by ensuring that the promised additional funding is clearly reflected in upcoming budget cycles. Funds should be ring-fenced for critical operational needs, modernisation, and the well-being of personnel. The President and the Department must further prioritise transparency and accountability to ensure that new resources directly benefit the SANDF and are not lost to inefficiency or mismanagement.
 
SANDF personnel continue to serve with dedication under increasingly difficult conditions. They deserve more than assurances - they deserve visible and measurable improvements that enable them to carry out their duties safely and effectively.

Issued by the Public Servants Association