South Africa’s Weak Defense Capabilities Expose It to Security Threats

Security experts warned on Tuesday that South Africa is facing growing security threats due to military budget cuts, poor leadership, and reliance on outdated equipment, which weakens its defense capabilities.

Independent defense analyst Kobus Marais stated that “the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) needs strong political leadership, effective management, and firm determination to overcome its numerous challenges.” His remarks came in response to statements by General Ntshavheni Maphaha, who criticized the government, describing the South African army as a “weak defense force.”

Maphaha accused the government of trying to play the role of “Big Brother” in Africa while failing to secure its own borders. He also pointed to the heavy losses suffered by the military recently, following the deaths of 14 South African soldiers in clashes with the M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

N.A