'Our SANDF troops are in trouble!' – Bantu Holomisa, Deputy Minister of Defence

Clement Manyathela interviews Bantu Holomisa, Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans and Pikkie Greeff, National Secretary of the South African National Defence Union.

Listen below.

Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Bantu Holomisa is seeking additional funding from President Cyril Ramaphosa for South African National Defence Force (SANDF) units deployed on peacekeeping missions. 

His request follows recent casualties suffered by SANDF personnel in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where two soldiers were killed and 20 wounded by M23 rebels last month.

Holomisa has urged Ramaphosa to initiate discussions with his Southern African Development Community (SADC) counterparts to revise rules and regulations that govern peacekeeping missions.

Holomisa argues that current regulations and lack of equipment hinder the SANDF's ability to defend themselves.

"The army is in trouble right now... these rebels don't observe any protocols, they just hit our troops."

- Bantu Holomisa, Deputy Minister – Defence and Military Veterans

"We are lacking far behind in terms of back-ups so we will be vulnerable... We have to change the situation around quickly."

- Bantu Holomisa, Deputy Minister – Defence and Military Veterans

The South African National Defence Union echoes these concerns, also advocating for increased funding.

They argue that insufficient resources have made soldiers vulnerable to attacks and emphasise the need for improved air support capabilities, medical and logistical support, and combat readiness.

RELATED: Holomisa to appeal for more funds for SANDF troops on peacekeeping missions

"We've been clear on the fact that the defence budget is basically depleted and cut to the bone."

- Pikkie Greeff, National Secretary – South African National Defence Union

"They are definitely vulnerable. I don't think we should take shortcuts here; just face the animal that we are seeing: we are not properly protected."

- Pikkie Greeff, National Secretary – South African National Defence Union

Greeff suggests that the South African government must engage in these missions with adequate safety and financial support or withdraw until it can fully resource them.

"We must be clear, this is not a peace-keeping mission, this is an offensive mission."

- Pikkie Greeff, National Secretary – South African National Defence Union

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.