Motshekga Vows to Modernise SA’s Defence Force Despite Budget Squeeze

South Africa’s Defence Minister Angie Motshekga has laid out an ambitious vision to revitalise the country’s armed forces, all while working with one of the tightest budgets in recent years.

Delivering her 2025/26 Budget Vote speech, Motshekga acknowledged the harsh financial climate facing the Department of Defence. Yet, in a firm tone, she committed to building a “modern, resilient and combat-ready” South African National Defence Force (SANDF) capable of responding to both domestic needs and regional peacekeeping efforts.

“We’ll Do More With Less”

With a total budget of R57.1 billion, of which a hefty R36 billion is earmarked just for employee compensation, Motshekga made it clear that tough choices lie ahead.

“In spite of our ongoing financial constraints, which badly affect our planning and operations, we will continue to reprioritise and do more with the little that we have,” she said in Parliament.

Key spending includes R2.5 billion for peacekeeping, R480 million for maintenance, and R200 million for border tech upgrades, critical in the wake of growing concerns over border security and organised crime.

SANDF Returns from DRC as Peacekeeping Winds Down

Motshekga confirmed the safe return of 2,250 SANDF troops from the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo following the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) decision to withdraw.

She thanked Rwanda, Tanzania, and Malawi for assisting with the logistical complexities of the exit, a reminder of SANDF’s deep regional ties and its ongoing role in stabilising volatile areas across Africa.

Local Defence Industry to Be Revived

At the heart of Motshekga’s plan is a renewed focus on rebuilding the local defence manufacturing sector, particularly state-owned arms company Denel, which has faced years of financial strain.

“Denel is very critical in the maintenance and support of the SANDF,” she said, pledging greater collaboration with both local and international partners to create jobs, boost exports, and develop new military capabilities.

She also spoke of the importance of digitising systems, streamlining procurement, and restoring public trust through more transparent, ethical governance.

Equipping Soldiers for the Future

Motshekga placed special emphasis on modernising SANDF equipment, including basics like uniforms and boots, as well as ensuring facilities meet the needs of women soldiers and people with disabilities.

She added that R300 million had been earmarked for urgent repairs and habitable infrastructure, long-standing issues that have affected morale in the barracks.

Military Veterans: Pensions, Education and Honour

On the veterans’ front, the Department of Military Veterans received R878 million, with plans to expand pensions to over 9,600 recipients this year. Since 2023, R217 million in pensions has already been paid out, and over 7,700 learners and students are receiving educational support.

A database verification project is underway to improve service delivery and avoid fraud.

New Conference on Military Oversight Coming to SA

In a notable announcement, Motshekga said South Africa will host a conference on military ombuds institutions this October. This reflects her push to strengthen civil-military relations, transparency, and good governance, especially after years of internal criticism over management failures and corruption.

“The Military Ombudsman continues to be an important instrument for civil oversight and promoting good labour relations,” she added.

Building a Defence Force That Reflects South Africa

With the weight of public scrutiny, fiscal limits, and international obligations on her shoulders, Motshekga’s message was clear: the SANDF must evolve.

She painted a vision of a modernised, accountable, and inclusive military, one that defends the country while supporting its broader development goals, not just in firepower, but in integrity, innovation, and national pride.

“In line with President Ramaphosa’s directive, we are reviewing long-term defence strategies to build a strong, resilient force,” she said. “Our duty is to protect the Republic and we will do so with honour, no matter the budget.”

Public Reactions:
While many welcomed Motshekga’s focus on integrity and modernisation, some defence analysts remain cautious about how much can be achieved with the current funding levels. On social media, veterans praised the pension rollout and education support, but urged faster reforms in housing and mental health services.

{Source: IOL}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com