SA Soldier CONTENTS SA Soldier SOUTH AFRICAN SOLDIER The official monthly magazine of the SA Department of Defence www.dod.mil.za

EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Mr S. Dlamini (Chairperson) Brig Gen M.P.M. Mgobozi Capt (SAN) J.D.J. Theunissen Col M.J. Mogweng Col M.D. Kgwete 14 6 32 Col P.S. Lengoasa 22 Col M.E. Pheko 4 From the Editor’s Desk 19 Clinical Psychologist brief 30 Regional Works Unit Limpopo Col (Past) M. Pillay deployed troops on emotional builds a home for an elderly Col E.C. Herandien ADJUSTING HIS AIM: Adjusting his aim using a special aiming tool 6 SANDF withdraws its soldiers ventilation lady Cdr T.J. Mabina mounted on the R4 rifle rare aperture site.(Photo by Nkosinathi Nkosi) from Operation NOTLELA 20 Maj E.M. Machete Rejuvenation and restoration of 32 Alternative energy power Mr L.R.M. Netshirembe 8 DFSC commends SANDF resilience to the 2 SAI BN sources deployed at 1 Military (Acting Editor) members and auxiliary personnel members deployed in the DRC hospital Mr W. van der Westhuizen deployed to Op NOTLELA (Layout) 22 SA Army takes-up Cuban 34 Focus on Covid-19 Facilities 9 Military Ombud concludes automated shooting system Team 40 Nurses training in all SAMHS investigation into the official institutions in Intensive Care conduct of the members of the 24 Memoirs of a soldier who lives 36 Military Ombud addresses Management of Covid-19 SANDF to uplift delegates during the 12th critical patients ICOAF 10 JCSD learners lead combat 26 Best international student – 3rd 42 Male Breast Cancer groups into battle ground degree course in Operational 37 CAS Log, Maj Gen Jacobs Staff during Exercise UKUTHULA Art and Strategy (Masters visit to AFB Langebaanweg 46 Resting in the God of Grace Grading) 2019/2020: Republic 12 SAAF members commended on of Cuba 38 Defence Reserves Division and a job well done C SANDF Project Koba-Tlala visit Facebook 28 How R Adm (JG) Dlamini led the Provinces 14 SAAF contributes to Exercise way SA Soldieris now available on Facebook UKUTHULA https://www.facebook. com/sandfcorpevents/ 16 France24 News Television Network visits the FIB HQ STREET ADDRESS SA SOLDIER is published monthly - 12 issues per year. The views CONTRIBUTIONS: Defence Headquarters FRONT COVER: Surveillance 18 MONUSCO hands over the Kuka and opinions expressed by the authors of articles are their own Although all possible care is taken with cor Nossob & Boeing St Operator from 1 Tactical Bridge to the Mayor of Beni articles, the editorial staff cannot accept any Erasmuskloof and do not necessarily represent those of the Department of Intelligence Regiment -Sct responsibility for lost articles and PRETORIA Defence (DOD). Acceptance and publication of advertorial and Shade Thomas, a Surveillance photographs. advertising matter in SA SOLDIERdo not constitute DOD Operator from 1 Tactical POSTAL ADDRESS Intelligence Regiment deployed EDITORIAL STAFF SA Soldier endorsement or warranty in respect of goods or services therein in Ex UKUTHULA to conduct Interns: Private Bag X158 described. The DOD does not assume any liability in respect of any battlefield surveillance in order to Acting Editor: Mr Lufuno Netshirembe PRETORIA, 0001 claims made in advertisements. provide real time information Photo Editor: S Sgt Lebogang Tlhaole TELEPHONE regarding destabilizes activities. Page 10(Photos by Cpl Jonathan Editorial Staff: S Sgt Itumeleng Makhubela Text Editor: Mr Deon Smit COPYRIGHT: No article or picture in this magazine may be Tel: (012) 355 6341 Mogano) Sgt Nkosinathi Nkosi Distribution:Mr Jim Tshabalala Fax: (012) 355 6399 reproduced without the written consent of the Editor. Cpl Jonathan Mogano Tel: (012) 355 6341 email: AB Samuel Ramonyai Layout &Mr Werner van der [email protected] For the latest news on defence matters in South Africa, L Cpl Paul Mpangala Design:Westhuizen website: www.dod.mil.za visit our website at: www.dod.mil.za

2 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 3 SA Soldier MESSAGE FACT FILE SA Soldier

from the editor’s desk

outh Africa is referred to as the “Rainbow Nation” determination. A nationalist thinks that every ethnic with a flag which reflects what all South Africans group is its own unique nation. In other words, in Sfrom our tumultuous past and diversity stand for. nationalism the nation is just a tool to have freedom for an Hoisted for the first time on 27 April 1994, the six colours of ethnic group, while in patriotism the nation (irrespective of the flag encapsulate the rainbow characteristics of South ethnicity) is the highest value. African people’s different backgrounds and demographics. The flag has no official symbol on it, it was a conscience Patriotism Brings People Together decision made not to have any symbol due to the country’s First and foremost, patriotism is a concept which brings diverse cultures and divisive turbulent past. However, the people together. A sense of solidarity and love for our red colour to some is a symbol and an evident country is a sentiment which binds. It is a shared feeling and acknowledgement of the blood that has been shed and lives common goal to do what's best for the nation as a whole and lost in different wars and conflicts that got us to this be supportive throughout this quest. democracy. Other than the patent SANDF uniform the camouflage While like a rainbow the flag is an assembly of colours uniform is affixed with the South African flag. The SANDF under one “thing”, what is important is that the South adopted a distinctive flag based on the South African flag. African flag is a call to action for all South Africans, Having the badge of the department in the fly of a dark regardless of their differences, to unite and be patriotic to green ensign with the South African National flag, is the new democratic South Africa. The South African flag is indicative of the SANDF commitment to the country, to more than a national symbol, it is a cultural icon serve the country and protect its sovereignty and its people. symbolizing a shared culture as one united nation, a way for a country to portray itself to the rest of the world Patriotism Makes for a Stronger Nation The act of patriotism and feeling patriotic makes people So, what is this patriotism that the flag calls every South stronger as a nation. Not only will you be able to relate well African to have? to others in your shared love for this country but the more Patriotism is love of one’s country and all that it stands for. individuals who express their patriotic feelings, the stronger It is loyalty of person to his/her own nation or the leaders our country will be as a whole. Those who are patriotic do of the nation. Being patriotic is to have the passion which what is right for the nation in the way of supporting efforts aims to serve one’s country, either in defending it from to make the country stronger and come together as a invasion, or protecting its rights and maintaining its laws combined group with a common goal. That goal is to do what and institutions in vigour and purity. Patriotism is the we can to keep the nation united and show solidarity for the characteristic of a good citizen, the noblest passion that good and success of South Africa. defines people merely living in a country and true character of a citizen. A Patriotic Spirit resembles courage and resilience A patriotic man/woman is a dedicated and strong citizen. Though patriotism and nationalism are used He/she is full of a special fortitude in showing dedication to interchangeably, there is a slight difference between achieve goals in the best interest of the country. patriotism and nationalism. Nationalism can be associated with the belief that a particular cultural or ethnic group Lufuno Netshirembe constitutes a distinct people deserving of political self- Acting Editor SA Soldier

4 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 5 SA Soldier OPERATIONNOTLELA OPERATION NOTLELA SA Soldier

joint and SANDF withdraws soldiers from Operation interdepartmental planning forums and work NOTLELA streams.

Maj Gen Sangweni said the SANDF responded with high morale when they were called upon to provide security and other capabilities. One of the highlight of the Article and photos by S Sgt Itumeleng deployment is the Makhubela successful Wuhan repatriation mission of ince the Commander-in-Chief and South African citizens that President of South Africa, Mr were in China during the Cyril Ramaphosa ordered the S pandemic outbreak. deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to He also expressed his wage a battle against an invisible gratitude to the frontline enemy, the Coronavirus pandemic; workers which included with the easing of lockdown the healthcare workers, regulations moving to Alert Level 1, Officer Commanding, 21 SA Infantry Battalion, Lt Col Charles Setabata standing the South African Police finally the time for the forces to with his soldiers on parade listening to Maj Gen Siphiwe Sangweni’s address. Service and other law withdraw has come. Gen Sangweni said that society had to adopt and identify, isolate, contact tracing, enforcement agencies who were accept a new normal way of life which included test and treat cases, confine by required to provide services at the After declaring a National State of social distancing, sanitize or washing of hands means of quarantine; the outbreak coal face of the pandemic outbreak. Disaster some eight months ago, The General Officer Commanding of the Joint Operational regularly and wearing of face masks. He said of the pandemic could be brought President Cyril Ramaphosa had called Headquarters, Maj Gen Siphiwe Sangweni announcing the withdrawal although the virus had a devastating effect on under control. It is with pride that “Our soldiers stood up and heeded upon the SANDF to monitor and of soldiers from Operation NOTLELA. people and health care systems, its impact was this country is recognised one of the call by the Commander-in- Chief enforce lockdown regulations as Nqakula, the Chief of the SANDF, Gen government departments at large. The also minimised in many countries that had a those that took the deliberate to strengthen the security sector of pandemonium ensued from the rapidly Solly Shoke, the Secretary of Defence, Covid-19 pandemic has left no country window to prepare a response against the decision to manage and control the the declared State of Disaster escalating covid-19 infections. MsGladys Kudjoe, the Chief of Joint untouched and did not discriminate pandemic. spread of the virus.” The SANDF regulations. This was intended to Operations, Lt Gen Rudzani against status or class, developed played a vital role as part of the curb the spread of the virus to allow The General Officer Commanding (GOC) Maphwanya and the Military Command countries or underdeveloped nations. It He said: “The world realised that when whole of government effort in the time for the Department of Health of the Joint Operation Headquarters (J Council. I also share the sentiments of has disrupted economies and a way of countries took a comprehensive approach based fight against Covid-19. It to capacitate its infrastructure.” He Ops HQ), Maj Gen Siphiwe Sangweni the security cluster and other life across the globe,” he said. on fundamental public health measures, such as participated and contributed in the said. announced at the 21 SA Infantry Battalion at Doornkop Military Base the withdrawal of all force elements to return back to units.

He said the address was directed to all soldiers who were deployed under Operation NOTLELA. Gen Sangweni said the reason the address was held at the base was that the doctrine directs that the commander must be stationed were the larger force office was positioned.

“We would like to thank you for your contribution in the operation, you have done your part. When I say we, I actually share the sentiments of the Members of the South African National Defence Force for the duration Minister of Defence and Military of Op NOTLELA gave support and protection to law enforcement Veterans, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa- agencies in ensuring compliance to lockdown regulations.

6 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 7 SA Soldier OPERATIONNOTLELA OPERATION NOTLELA SA Soldier DFSC commends SANDF members deployed Military Ombud concludes Investigation into to Op NOTLELA conduct of members of the SANDF

Article by: Mr Ntshengedzeni Singo, SA Military Ombud Communication Officer Photo by Cpl Paul Mpangala

he Office of the Military Ombud Article by Mr Vicky Mthombeni, Defence Force has completed the investigation Service Commission Communication Officer Tinto the conduct of members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) in relation to their SANDF in support of SAPS members executing their lockdown he Commander in Chief of the South enforcement duty in Alexandra, Johannesburg. interaction with the Khosa family and African National Defence Force (SANDF), other members of the public in Alexandra during Lt Gen (Ret) Masondo said the into the conduct of their members. President Cyril Ramaphosa, authorised T the Lockdown. The Military Ombud was assigned investigations into other The Office of the Military Ombud the deployment of approximately 2 820 military by the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans complaints were ongoing. So far, continues to appeal to members of personnel to support other state departments to conduct the investigation in terms of section 6 the Office received approximately the public that complaints to his to flatten the curve of Covid-19 pandemic. This (11) of the Military Ombud Act 4 of 2012. 32 complaints from members of the Office should be lodged in writing was after the President declared a State of In early August, the Office of the Military public against members of the using the prescribed Complaint National Disaster and lockdown on 26 March to Ombud completed the investigation and SANDF since the beginning of the Form that can be obtained from our 16 April 2020. The number of the soldiers was submitted the report with findings and Lockdown. In cases where there website at www.milombud.org. The increased to 76 000 on 21 April 2020 through a recommendations to the Minister of Defence and was a joint operation the law Office of the Military Ombud can be Presidential Declaration due to the alarming Military Veterans. Lt Gen (Ret) Vusumuzi enforcement agencies concerned reached [email protected] increase and the spread of the pandemic. Masondo said “he was pleased that his office do conduct their own investigation or WhatsApp 012 676 3800. managed to conclude the investigation within the Although the latter deployment was intended to timeframe set by the Minister”. CODE OF CONDUCT FOR UNIFORMED MEMBERS OF THE end on 05 July 2020, the President further The Military Ombud investigation was an SANDF extended “the employment of 20 000 members administrative inquiry into the conduct I pledge to serve and defend my country and its people in accordance with the of the SANDF for service in co-operation with of members of the SANDF which is separate from Constitution and the law and with honour, dignity, courage and integrity. the South African Police Service (SAPS) to the criminal investigation that was conducted by maintain law and order, support other State I serve in the SANDF with loyalty and pride, as a citizen and a volunteer. the South African Police Service. In summary, the departments and continue executing SANDF I respect the democratic political process and civil control of the SANDF. Office found that the official conduct of these constitutional mandate of controlling our I will not advance or harm the interests of any political party or organisation. SANDF members was improper, irregular and in border lines to combat further spread of Covid- contravention of the Code of Conduct, I accept personal responsibility for my actions. 19 in all nine provinces”, until end December Operational Order and Rules of Engagement. It I will obey all lawful commands and respect all superiors. 2020. Chairperson of the Defence Force Service Commission, Mr Ian was also found that the Platoon Commander I will refuse to obey an obviously illegal order. Robertson. failed to command the Platoon in line with The Defence Force Service Commission (DFSC) I will carry out my mission with courage and assist my comrades-in-arms, even at Command Orders. continues to express its support to SANDF protect and save the lives of South were part of the 1st phase of the risk of my own life. The investigation conducted by the Military members (Regular Force and Reserve Force) and Africans. Operation Notlela, for the sterling I will treat all people fairly and respect their rights and dignity at all times, Ombud was an independent investigation in auxiliary personnel in complementing job done. regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, culture, language or sexual orientation. terms of the Military Ombud Act. The Office was Government’s response to the Covid-19 The Commission would like to pay I will respect and support subordinates and treat them fairly. mandated to conduct investigations without fear, pandemic. The effort of the SANDF to flatten the tribute to all SANDF members and Lastly, the Commission would like to favour or prejudice. It is generally accepted that I will not abuse my authority, position or public funds for personal gain, political curve is far greater than the South African auxiliary support personnel, who encourage and wish SANDF members motive or any other reason. allegations of misconduct against members of the public realise. The DFSC Chairperson, perished on duty while saving and the auxiliary support personnel SANDF while conducting official duties, including I will report criminal activity, corruption and misconduct to the appropriate Commissioners and Secretariat commend and lives in this difficult time of the well in future deployments. We are official duties performed during the Lockdown, authority. extend their appreciation to the Department of pandemic. Gratitude is further confident that they will continue to fall under the ambit of “official conduct of a I will strive to improve the capabilities of the SANDF by maintaining discipline, Defence (DOD) and SANDF in their rapid extended to SANDF members and make us proud in executing their member” for the purposes of section 4(1) (c) of safeguarding property, developing skills and knowledge, and performing my duties response to the national call to selflessly Auxiliary support personnel who future mandated tasks. the Act. diligently and professionally.

8 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 9 SA Soldier EXERCISEUKUTHULA EXERCISE UKUTHULA SA Soldier

The Col said the exercise was a practical part capable of; identify deficiencies and elevated me to a new level. JCSD learners lead combat groups into of the course where students who have orchestrate remedial actions However, it was challenging to completed the theoretical part of the training needed to address the short-falls. A command the forces but it was a battle ground during Exercise Ukuthula and planning, completed the circle by executing lot of planning went into Exercise learning curve for me. May I add the exercise at CTC in Lohatla on a battalion and Ukuthula for this Junior Command that to be here and having gone combat group level. “We currently have a combat and Staff Duties course with the sole through the training itself is an group from 1 SAI BN on the ground, armoured purpose of achieving successes and achievement. All the learners wish forces which include tanks and rooikat armoured ensuring that the SA Army produces to be JCSD qualified and eventually reconnaissance vehicles as well as the engineers. the best future commanders who be recognised as a commanders, The final phase is the integration of the forces. can operate under pressure with the such a Wing Commander or an By S Sgt Itumeleng Makhubela After the integration plan has been presented it required robustness and flexibility Officer Commanding. I am glad to Photos by Cpl Jonathan Mogano would then be practically executed here in the to lead men and women into have been given the exposure and range.” He said. combat. When it comes to an hope this qualification leads me to he final phase of the Junior The Chief of the SA Army Lt Gen Lawrence exercise, it is real- it is closer to better opportunities.” Command and Staff Duties (JSCD) Mbatha, said the exercise boosts the morale and reality,” asserted the Chief of Army. Another student, Maj Lulama Tcourse culminated in a three- confidence of the soldiers and enriches the Maj Bridget Bosman from the Longa from the SA Army Infantry month-long exercise that was held at the skilfulness of operational forces. He indicated School of Armour at Tempe Military Formation; user-system manager South African Army Combat Training that when it came to the art of war, military Base and a student on the JCSD turned qualified battalion Centre (CTC) in Lohatla. Code named exercises and continuous training brings the course, was appointed as the Zero commander. She said the course forces closer to the reality of war. Lt Gen Mbatha Alpha to bring out the combat enabled her to command other RIGHT: Chief of South African said the Defence Review of 2015 demands of the group which was from 1 SAI BN as corps and arms of service as a Army, Lt Gen Lawrence Mbatha Department of Defence to align and develop the part of Exercise Ukuthula during combat group commander. Saying: addressing members at the South African Army Combat Training SANDF as a professional and competent defence the“live” attacks. She believes that “What was expected from me in the Centre in Lohatla. force capable of executing its constitutional Exercise Ukuthula was a good course and from this exercise was mandate, which is to protect and defend the exposure for them as students in to be qualified as a combat group sovereignty and territorial integrity of the the SA Army and a good experience commander. It was challenging Republic of South Africa against any aggressor. to participate in. She said it was a throughout the year having to learn He indicated that it was the obligation of the learning curve for her to be the theoretical part of the course. SANDF to ensure that a professional image was integrated with other force With the practical phase, it was always projected through efficient management elements such as the Infantry, even more challenging as we had to of forces as it is imperative for operational Artillery, and the South African Air put what we have learnt into success. “The execution of this exercise allows Force. Maj Bosman said: “I feel that practice to determine performance me as the Chief of the Army to know what we are it has built my character and level against theory.”

Real time war exercise, display of the SANDF’s firing capabilities Exercise Ukuthula, this phase of the course was to practical experience in planning learners were given an opportunity designed to put participants through their and execution of mobile warfare and to do live (simulated) attacks with paces as battalion commanders. peace support operations on a the forces allocated on the ground. The purpose of the exercise was to train the tactical level. As the Exercise Leader for Exercise learners on the JCSD learning programme as Lt Col Mark Wheeler, a Specialist Ukuthula, he was responsible for commanders for future operations in line with Instructor, Armour Branch the ground forces and the students Article 4(h) and 4(j) of the African Union Commander at the SA Army CTC, who had to lead combat group Constitutive Act. The exercise exposes learners said they ensured that all the during attacks. The ground explosion after the detonation of explosives during the exercise phase at the training field.

10 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 11 SA Soldier EXERCISEUKUTHULA FACTFILE SA Soldier SAAF members commended South African National Defence Force

to undertake the demobilisation objective of the Exercise”, he said. phase, Col Matshakha urged them he South African National Defence Force is South The above is derived from the to remain disciplined, be In an effort to enable the SAAF Africa’s last line of defence, for use when Constitution, the Defence Act, the professional, be vigilant and members to have a Tdiplomacy, the intelligence services and the Defence White Paper, Defence remain passionate in whatever comprehensive understanding of military’s own attempts at deterrence have failed. Review and the Strategic Business they do. Among some of those who the SANDF joint forces Exercises, Plan. were present were members of the Col Matshakha mentioned that in The SANDF`s mandate is to… air and ground crews, fire fighters, Article by Captain Thomas Mulaudzi order for the SAAF to test its • Defend against Aggression: To provide a self- The SANDF comprises the armed Photos by Sapper Sibonelo Madondo - SA personnel, protection, as well as doctrines and the standing defence capability according to international law forces of South Africa namely, the Army Engineer Formation command and control. operations procedures (SOP’s), against any threat of aggression that endangers the South African Army, the South more members of the SAAF should stability and sovereignty of South Africa. African Air Force, South African he Component Commander of the Rapid In addition, Col Matshakha said be deployed to gain insight on • Promote Security: To provide for the internal and Navy and South African Military Deployment Air Operations Team 43 members of the SAAF contributed joint operations with other Arms TBrigade, Col Sthembisile Sly Matshakha, immensely on the success of the of Services of the SANDF. external deployment of military forces to enhance Health Service. The commander of thanked members of the South African Air Exercise by displaying diligence in security in support of decisions by the executive. the SANDF is appointed by Force (SAAF) deployed at the South African their work and a high standard of Col Matshakha highlighted that • Support the People of South Africa: To provide the President of South Africa from Army Combat Training Centre Lohatla during discipline. “Irrespective of the fact thorough planning and support to South Africa’s population or other one of the armed services. They are Exercise UKUTHULA 2020, for their excellent that some of you participated in coordination should be done on government departments in operations and in turn accountable to the Minister contribution in support of the South African the Exercise for their first time, time by means of pledging activities other than war, by using collateral utility. of Defence and Military Veterans. Army. you were committed and maximum support with more dedicated to the tasks which led resources for the future SAAF Addressing members as the forces were about on the SAAF achieving the Exercises.

Exercise staged scenario: Belligerent group leader standing in uniform combat situation with the peace keepers.

12 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 13 SA Soldier EXERCISEUKUTHULA EXERCISE UKUTHULA SA Soldier SAAF contributes to EX- UKUTHULA

By Capt Thomas Mulaudzi photos: By Sapper Siboneli Madondo - SA Army Combat Training Centre, Lohatla Northen Cape

pproximately 69 members of the South African Air Force (SAAF) participated in Exercise AMABOTHO and AUKUTHULA respectively. SAAF’s participation provided Col Sly Matshakha and some of his colleagues with the Agusta helicopter in the background. core support to the South African Army students who were undergoing the Joint Senior Command and Staff Programme While in any military exercise emergencies are not expected, they can unavoidably occur and therefore measures must be put in place to deal with such emergencies, Maj Luxolo Vuyo Wakhaba, a Pilot from 19 Squadron AFB Hoedspruit, who amongst other duties was responsible for emergencies and Casualty evacuation or CASEVAC tasks.

In addition, Col Matshaka mentioned that part of the program was to conduct real Maj Luxolo Vuyo Wakaba 19 Sqn Pilot onboard time fire fighting drills which the aircraft about to commence with his daily was done at Lohatla Shooting tasks. Range. “It is not the first time Personnel from the Engineering Corps performing piping of water after having been purified. Col Sly Matshakha, Air Component Commander during for me to conduct an were utilised during these Exercise Ukuthula in Lohatla. exercises. I have spent most of my military SAAF and the Exercise Director, (MAOT) commanders, command exercises to achieve the SAAF’s life conducting exercises”, he said. Col Sehaka Hloka for a mission and control assistants and (JCSP)course. The Exercise was held at the SA tactical environment just to set mission objectives. accomplished. There were no command and control Army Combat Training Centre (CTC) Lohatla in mention a few. From year 2006 to 2008, Col Matshaka served incidents of any kind reported communicators. He was equally the Northern Cape from 27 September until 27 Among the staff members present as an Operational Officer in Lohatla. He then during the mission. “The positive grateful to the Commander, Lt Col November 2020. Furthermore, Col Matshaka who ensure that the mission was moved to Joint Tactical Headquarters spirit, the willingness to carry on Ivan Schwartz and team, the mentioned that Exercise carried out successfully, were Mafikeng, North West in 2009 to 2012. From and the morale of members was Command Post Officer and According to the Air Component Commander, AMABOTHO was all about Brigade representatives from various 2012 to 2016, Col Matshaka deployed back to high all the time”, the Col stated. Assistant, Comms Officer, Col Sly Matshaka the mandate for the planning meanwhile, Exercise Squadrons who were responsible Joint Ops Headquarters where from 2016 to Operational Officer and Assistants, deployment of the SAAF was mainly to provide UKHUTHULA was about force for planning from the helicopter, date he was appointed as the Officer Col Matshaka complimented the Intelligence Officer and Assistant, battlefields surveillance, unconventional intervention and peace support fighter, and transport group, Commanding of the Rapid Deployment Air team that provided command Air Rescue Fire Fighting Crew, warfare scenario, tactical training opportunity which covers the practical air field stated Col Matshaka. Other Operations Team 43 in Walmansthal, Pretoria. and control training for the Human Resource Personnel, for aircrews in both conventional warfare and support phase. The Oryx and stakeholders who were present to Some of his daily tasks include planning, SAAF and conducted the Protection Personnel from 500 peace support operations, exposing the Agusta 109 from 19 Squadron AFB provide support were the South execution, coordinate and control the SAAF functional development of air Squadron and the full complement aircrews to the operations with the SA Army, Hoedspruit, Rooivalk from 16 African Police Services, Military participation in the landward battle and joint traffic controllers, mission of the Ground Power Unit and the confirming and testing the SAAF doctrine in Squadron AFB Bloemspruit and Police, SA Military Health Service exercises. controllers, communication rest of the personnel who unconventional warfare as well as renewing the the Hawks from 85 Combat Flying and other SA Army support officers, command post officers, supported him throughout the aircrew competencies and currencies in a School; Air Force Base Makhado elements. He commended the support given by the Mobile Air Operations Team mission.

14 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 15 SA Soldier EXTERNALDEPLOYMENT EXTERNAL DEPLOYMENT SA Soldier France24 News Television Network visits FIB Headquarters

LEFT: G 3 Deputy Chief, Maj Leon Daniels presenting to the journalists.

Information and Photos by: Capt Yonela Halom, Public Information Office RSA BATT

rance24 Television Network is a French state-owned international Fnews television network in France. The network broadcasts in French, English, Arabic and Spanish languages for the overseas market. On 05 November 2020, Journalists from French24, Ms Juliette Dubois and Mr Clement Bonnerot visited the Force

MPIO, Maj Mody Gambo Foukory welcoming and briefing the French 24 journalists

the ground in his area of responsibility and neighbouring areas.

In his briefing Brig Gen Dyakopu highlighted that the volatile situation that existed before had improved because of the Joint Operations that were continuously planned and executed by the three FIB Commander briefing the journalists in his operational FIB Commander and the French Journalists forces that are under the FIB office. listening to Maj Leon Daniel’s presentation. umbrella (South African, Malawi and Tanzanian Battalions) and Force Intervention Brigade, they were doing and farming projects”, he said. He presentation regarding the other MONUSCO forces. The FIB everything in their power to ensure that their added that there was a Tactical composition, activities, Area of operates in support of the Armed mandate; to protect the civilian population Intelligence Unit (TIU) that serves Operation, Current Disposition, Forces of the Democratic Republic was well executed and attained. to enhance his capability. TIU Operational Picture, Future of the Congo (French: Forces essentially is the ears and the eyes Deployments, and Engineering The Force Commander informed the France24 on the ground for the FIB Works as wellas other FIB Commander, Brig Gen Monwabisi Dyalopu welcoming Ms Juliette armées de la république Dubois and her colleague to the FIB Headquarters démocratique du Congo [FARDC]) Television Network personnel that there was Commander that acts as an early responsibilities of the Force which is the officially recognised an on-going project of building and improving warning system and to continuously Intervention Brigade. Intervention Brigade Headquarters (FIB The Journalists were defence force of the DRC. some of the FARDC bases. He further provide him with timeous HQ) in Beni, city in North Eastern accompanied to the FIB highlighted that the local community was in intelligence that assists him to plan On completion of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Commander, Brig Gen He indicated that these Joint favour of the FIB. “As you can see on the and execute operations. presentations, the Journalists could where they were briefed by the Force Monwabisi Dyakopu’s Operations assisted in drastically statistics presented, we make sure that we look forward to go on a patrol with intervention Brigade Military Public Operational Office for an official decreasing the number of attacks attend to all the alerts that come our way. This After the briefing by the FIB a section from the Malawi Battalion Information Officer (MPIO), Maj Mody meet and greet session. The FIB onthe local population by armed improved the behaviour of the local Commander, the Journalists were to witness a patrol and possibly Gambo Foukory Ari on the programme of Commander briefed the non-statutory groups. Brig Gen population towards our forces as we are ushered to the Operational Room interact with the local population the two days of their visit. Journalists on the situation on Dyakopu accentuated that as the assisting them in protection of their homes where Maj Leon Daniels gave a in the area of Kilia.

16 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 17 SA Soldier EXTERNALDEPLOYMENT EXTERNAL DEPLOYMENT SA Soldier MONUSCO hands over the Kuka Bridge to the Mayor of Beni

Information by: Capt Yonela Halom, PIO RSA BATT Photos by: Mr Michael Ali

n 03 November 2020, The Force Intervention Brigade (FIB) OCommander, Brig Gen Monwabisi Dyakopu was amongst the delegation that was handing over a well-constructed bridge that

RIGHT: The MONUSCO Head of Office The Mayor of Beni, Mr Modeste Bakwanamaha Muhindo officially opening the bridge with the help of the FIB signing off the bridge to the Beni Mayor. Commander and the MONUSCO Head of Office.

Front row, fltr: Force Intervention Brigade Commander Brig Gen Monwabisi Dyakopu, MONUSCO HoO Ms Cecilia Piazza, and Beni Mayor Modeste Bakwanamaha Muhindo with the local population.

was one of many projects that the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MUNUSCO) is busy with in support of the local population within the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The KUKA Bridge is The local population dancing for the delegation to show their appreciation. in the town of Beni between Kalinda and Beni, Modeste Bakwanamaha Muhindo The Head of Office (HoO) Ms From dancing for the delegation Masiyani quarters. extending his appreciation to MONUSCO, Cecilia Piazza in her speech and jubilation displayed by the highlighted that people drowned during indicated that this bridge would local population one would clearly The local community of this area has been the flooding of the river as it was difficult assist in the Protection of Civilians see their appreciation. This was a suffering for a long time prior to the for them especially for women and as the patrols by the different good development and it will construction of this bridge. The Mayor of children to negotiate their way across the military Forces and other improve the relationship between RIGHT: The MONUSCO Head of Office river during heavy rains and flooding humanitarian agencies on the the local population and Ms Cecilia Piazza. seasons. ground will be much easier. MONUSCO.

18 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 19 SA Soldier EXTERNALDEPLOYMENT EXTERNAL DEPLOYMENT SA Soldier Rejuvenation, restoration of resilience to

2 SAI BN deployed in the DRC RIGHT: Charlie Company Commander Maj Papiki Josias Semonyo and his command group extending a vote of thanks to the social worker for a Article and photos by Capt Yonela well prepared Halom - Public Information Officer presentation. 15 SAI BN

n any military operations, soldiers are issued with all the Iequipment they need to survive in that specific operation. Along members continue to perform their with weapons, equipment and duties diligently. body armour, soldiers need to be empowered with lessons and Capt Lebogang Mokone, the social worker for the incoming 15 South African FRTL: Medical Task Team Commander (2 SAI BN) Battalion (15 SAI BN) which will be taking Capt Kgauta Shadrack Lepele, Capt Lebogang Mokone and 15 SAI BN Charlie Coy Intelligence over from 2 SAI BN, saw it fit to visit Officer, Capt Happy Mabuza. members of Charlie Company of 2 SAI BN to psychologically rejuvenate their minds and restore their will to fight.

Capt Mokone requested a communication period with the members of Charlie Company based in Beni under the command of Maj Papiki Josias Semonyo. The social worker was welcomed and introduced by the Medical Task Team Commander Capt Kgauta Shadrack Lepele. Capt Lebogang Mokone, Capt Kwaleng Kekana and Maj Papiki Josias Semonyo. The communication period was attended by He also reminded them that not They need to know each other well all members of Charlie company that were in being able to control their feelings enough to notice a change of the base including the Commander, Maj and their emotions could lead behaviour in one another which Semonyo and his command group, the them to making wrong decisions can be an indication that a brother Capt Lebogang Mokone, 15 SAI BN Social worker incoming Charlie company commander Maj which would have consequences in arms in not coping. Secondly, presenting to members of Charlie company Fernando Quissueia and his Intelligence that could destroy their careers, they need to keep contact with members of 2 SAI BN. Officer Capt Happy Mabuza from the incoming affect their future deployments their families back home at all Charlie Company Commander Maj Papiki Josias mechanisms to protect themselves Semonyo and members receiving a presentation from 15SAIBN. and negatively affect their times. Furthermore, they should psychologically. It is of the utmost importance the social worker. families. feel free to approach their for soldiers to be equally prepared and trained The social worker touched on some important commanders as they are the physically for any operation. It is therefore the Eastern Democratic Republic extended making this deployment aspects and issues such as the management of The social worker concluded by closest support system to them on criticalto deploy professionals and subject of Congo (DRC) on Operation longer than the initially planned 12 stress, how to control one’s mind and emphasising to members the the ground. Lastly they should feel matter experts to continuously train soldiers MISTRAL; for Peace Enforcement months mission in the DRC. behaviour in difficult situations and coping available channels to approach free to approach the social worker, both psychologically and physically. and Protection of Civilians under Inevitably this created fatigue, with human needs in the mission area. Further when they needed help if feeling the psychologist and the chaplain the command of Lt Col Fanisile panic and uncertainty for the enlightening the members on the risks and overwhelmed. He mentioned that when they feel there is a need so 14 Months have passed since 2 South African Nkandile. Due to the Covid-19 soldiers on the ground. In the midst disadvantages of not being able to deal with first and most importantly, they that they can be given the Infantry Battalion (2 SAI BN) was deployed in pandemic, their mission was of these conditions, the deployed prolonged deployment in a foreign country. need to be each other’s buddies. necessary support.

20 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 21 SA Soldier EVENTS EVENTS SA Soldier SA Army takes-up Cuban automated shooting system

Article by Sgt Nkosinathi Nkosi

team of Cuban weapon Running to take-up different firing positions, during the Firing training specialists under Position Class. Athe auspice of Project Thusano, descended from 81 Main Ordinance Supply Depo in Pretoria Walking out of the trench after a hectic 10 to SA Army Infantry Formation, round shooting exercise. Infantry School in Oudtshoorn with the view to present the rotational classes namely: Cuban Automated Shooting • Elementary Observation Class: This system. The aim of the Automated is where members are trained on how to identify different types of Simulating night-time, members targets, and gauge the distance strip and assemble R4 rifle blindfolded during the striping thereof, using the front pillar sites of and assembling class. the R4 rifle. • Striping and Assembling Class: In of the exercise, the SA Army will this class the operative word is time, decide on what it would take from members are timed on how quickly the Cuban system in order to create a they can strip and assemble the R4 system that will specifically cater to rifle, during day or night the SA Army doctrine”. [blindfolded]. Infantry School Instructor explaining the scenario of the Live • Aiming Class: This is where The five week skills transfer Firing Class. programme, which began on 14 members are reminded of the rules September 2020, culminated in two maintain professionalism within its visit to Cuba. Fascinated by the of aiming, trigger control and how to weeks live demonstrations to musketry and trade, to adapt and survive skills that were there, our frame your target and keep it in that different commanders within the SA the current circumstances, and strive to principals entered into an picture. Army from 22 to 30 October 2020 at align itself with both the constitutional and agreement and requested the • Firing Position Class: This is where the SA Army Infantry Formation. the SA Army mandate. He acknowledged Cubans come to South Africa members are acquainted with the Among the many present, was the and thanked the Cuban delegation for and assist the SANDF in Cuban way of firing the R4 rifle on a Chief SA Army, Lt Gen Lawrence sharing their knowledge and skills. maintaining certain bipod and using the right hand to Mbatha, with his Army Council and The Cuban Military have been hailed capabilities within its cock and change the safety lever, as Gauging the distance and making notes thereof during the Elementary for their ingenuity and efficient cost saving structures,” said Lt Gen well as firing from multiple positions. Observation class. General Staff; the Chief Army Senior Sergeant Majors (CASSM), the Cuban measures when it came to maintaining and Lawrence Mbatha. • Live Firing Class: In this class Shooting system is to improve and maintain the system is less about shooting for delegation led by Brig Borjas Ortega improving force the preparation levels of In conclusion, the Chief SA members are issued with ten live force preparation levels of the landward forces. proficiency but more about testing and representatives from the Council their forces. It was for these reasons that Army thanked instructors rounds and given a scenario where This saw nine instructors and ninety-six riflemen for issues of safety in the range as for Scientific Industrial Research South Africa entered into a bilateral from the Infantry School, as they take up a defensive position as (privates) based at the school, undergo training well as to ensure that soldiers (CSIR) led by Dr Thabang Sono. defence co-operation agreement with Cuba well as the 2020 Military Skills the enemy advances, they are then on the Cuban philosophy and methodology of understand their firing arcs and During his address, the Chief SA - an agreement that saw both forces Development System (MSDS) expected to execute the drills combat shooting. the type of target they are faced Army, Lt Gen Mbatha, stated that due participate in several skills transfer intake, for taking part in the previously learnt from all four The South African Army Chief Director Force with in the battle space”. to the unprecedented downward programmes. exercise and displaying such classes as they engage the automated Structure, Maj Gen Sandile Hlongwa described Maj Gen Hlongwa went on to trajectory for the SANDF due to a “South Africa and Cuba, have a long high levels of professionalism pop up targets. the Cuban Automated Shooting system as a say, the idea behind the Cuban series of budget cuts over the years, standing history which was reinforced and discipline during the live According to Maj Gen Hlongwa, after Combat Shooting system which was more system was not to replace but the SANDF, being one of the hardest lately by our first Commander-in-Chief, the demonstrations. the adoption of the system, it would be realistic to the typical battle space of rather to enhance what the SA hit departments, it was now more late former President Nelson Mandela The Automated Shooting rolled out to all Centres of Excellence conventional forces. ”This Automated Shooting Army currently uses. “At the end important for the SA Army to when he met with Fidel Castro. During a system is divided into five within the SANDF.

22 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 23 SA Soldier FOCUSONPEOPLE FOCUS ON PEOPLE SA Soldier Memoirs of a soldier who lives to uplift

LEFT: MajGen Nontsikele Memela- Motumi (in civilian clothing in the second row) with other female Article by: Mr Tseko Nell Generals attending Photos by Mr Tseko Nell and TPR T. Lekeka exclusively women officers seminar attended by the ajor General Memela-Motumi is well known and Minister of Defence, seldom disputed (especially by close comrades) as the Ms Nosiviwe Mepitome of the liberation struggle personality. She is Mapisa-Nqakula(in (if you like) a true smooth operator, a very fine and unsung civilian clothing in struggle heroine who was willing to lay down her life for the front row) at the Air Force freedom, justice and equality. This comrade has served with Gymnasium in pride and honor for 40 years and is now ready to hang up her Valhalla. boots. One is delighted to have worked with her closely in the uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) underground structure from 1986 before exile. It is not hard to quote from Nikolai Ostrovvsky’s famous book, which inspired many freedom fighters of our time titled The Deputy Chief Human Resources, Maj hard and bitter struggle for freedom and that SANDF troops are subjected to recipient of the Southern Cross Gen Ntsiki Memela-Motumi. “How The Steel Was Tempered” to describe Memela-Motumi’s liberation. She has monumental courage and as part of Mission-Readiness; further Medal which is awarded for moral well-being and the does not boast defiance nor arrogance, but served as the Chief of Operations in outstanding service of the highest community she was born and became an indomitable smooth operator Project Phidisa which resulted in HIV order and outmost devotion to bred and lived in. All sorts of escaping and surviving all attempts to capture positive members and their families duty. Lastly, she is the author of personal aims, ends, hopes and and detain her and in that protecting other accessing life-saving treatment to “Spear of Hope – Affirmative prospects, linger before the members of the unit and the underground prolong their lives, spearheaded action, transformation and eyes of the individual, and out network, thereby not endangering the lives of research on Gender-Based Violence reconciliation in the new SANDF”. of these she derives the impulse cadres. She in her own right is a heroine who in the SANDF, as well as changing the She is also a publisher of several to ambition and achievement. brushed shoulders with other baobabs, such as, name of the Chief Directorate Equal articles in professional journals She had the vision to see the Mama Albertina Sisulu and Mama Winnie Opportunities to Transformation and one of the esteemed truth, courage to act upon it, Mandela, amongst others. Management, ensured that the members of the International dedication to that which was In 1994, she integrated into the South Gender Mainstreaming Strategy was Women’s Forum. good, integrity to stand by the African National Defence Force (SANDF) as a promulgated and implemented Maj Gen Memela-Motumi good at any price. It was in this professional social worker in the Directorate within the organization; provided continues to be a champion of the context that Maj Gen Memela- Social Work with the rank of Lt Col. She became strategic direction in the underdog and a pillar of support Motumi, with passion and a mainstay of strength and support for ex- incorporation of gender perspectives and strength to comrades inside conviction chose to give all her combatants of MK and Azanian People's in all Military Development Courses and outside the SANDF across Fltr: Maj Gen Nontsikele Memela-Motumi with the former Chief of Joint life and her strength “to the Liberation Army (APLA) who were struggling and further shared best practices race, gender and former force Operations, Lt Gen Barney Hlatshwayo and Minister of Defence, Ms Nosiviwe finest cause in all the world – with integration. She assisted many serving with women in the North Atlantic status. In her trail blazing career Mapisa-Nqakula attending Women in deployment and leadership at Joint SANDF members who were disadvantaged, Treaty Organization (NATO) Armed and lifetime, she lives true to her Operations Headquaters in Centurion. the fight for the liberation of Mankind”. despondent, marginalized and alienated by the Forces on the advancement of the name “Nontsikelelo” which character and selfless commitment to the world individual life. Maj Gen Memela-Motumi was dominant systems by virtue of their previous Gender Equality Agenda within means a blessing. As she “hangs struggle for freedom and justice. “Man’s dearest Growing up, she could have and still is a champion for the down Non-Statutory Armed Forces background. She military institutions. her boots” going on her well possession is life. It is given to him only but regarded the general, impersonal trodden African masses in the also participated in various SANDF committees She also commanded respect in deserved retirement, there is no once, and he must live it so as to feel no foundations of her existence as townships. Her chosen career was charged with the responsibility of ensuring that the the Southern African doubt that her ability to influence torturing regrets for wasted years, never know definitely settled. In addition, she consciously and intentionally to be the integration process was executed in Development Community Human the agenda and uplift others as the burning shame of a mean and petty past; so might have taken the a selfless servant of the people. She accordance with the decisions taken by the Joint Resource (SADC HR) Work Group she rose will be missed by the live that dying he might say: all my life, all my circumstances for granted and be has a natural comradely Military Command Council. She was brave and under the banner of the Interstate rank and file as she was indeed strength were given to the finest cause in all the far from assuming a critical understanding and a sympathetic not afraid to speak-up in meetings. Defence and Security Committee for the people’s General. We wish world – the fight for the liberation of Mankind”. attitude toward those foundations. interest in the wellness of all those In the SANDF circles she is reputed for her decisive leadership. Maj Gen Major General Nontsikelelo Maj Gen Memela-Motumi is an epitome of this Yet she was acutely conscious of known to her. She is a social worker punctuality and regarded as a workaholic. Her Memela-Motumi has been awarded Memela-Motumi all the best as selflessness, self-sacrifice and service, as she has the deficiencies of her era and by profession. She fearlessly tour of duty legacy includes but is not limited to several medals for service she embarks on the new chapter put the interests of the majority before her own found them prejudicial to her own plunged into the crucible of the the development of the Resilience Programme excellence, most notably the in her life.

24 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 25 SA Soldier FOCUSONPEOPLE FOCUS ON PEOPLE SA Soldier Best international student – 3rd degree course in Operational Art and Strategy (Masters Grading) 2019/2020: Republic of Cuba

Article and photos by Lt Col Tiger Johnson - 2IC Arty Centre of Excellence

ravelling to the Republic of Cuba for a 3rd Degree Interarms TCourse in Operational Art and Strategy that began in September 2019, South African students shockingly came to a realisation that the lack of understanding of a different culture and language in any setting could be a tremendous barrier.

Not only was the barrier in communication, but even to a general way of conducting one’s life in culturally correct manner. Even mundane things that one would take for granted at one’s home country becomes a serious challenge when one is in a foreign country. The facilitation of the course was mostly done in Spanish with translators doing their Professor Julio Iznaga hands over the medal to Lt Col Tiger Johnson. best to help the students understand. Lt Col Tiger Johnson after graduating at the Maximo Gómez Command Academy in Cuba. In essence the students had to listen were achieved by then. The only outstanding even more special was the fact minimum chances of making it to twice which made it even more challenging. The limited emphasis on offensive would be faced with more than 11 objective was the presentation of the final work. that all odds were stacked Cuba, the opportunity was humbling course was presented at Maximo Gomez operations. The Cuban ultimate million combatants at any given against the South African for me. Command Academy in Havana. and unique defence strategy moment of aggression against Classes resumed again for five weeks from 11 students. Due to the Coronavirus referred to as the ‘War of all their territory. May 2020. It was an intense and rigorous pandemic, there was In the end everything worked out and The course is the equivalent of the South African people’ implies that the defence of preparation programme which culminated in consideration at one point to I feel honoured by the opportunity Joint Senior Command and Staff Programme the territorial integrity of Cuba is Everything progressed well and the final work presentations on 15 and 16 June repatriate these foreign students afforded to me to represent the (JSCP). The Cuban doctrine is largely based on a collective responsibility of the just when the students thought 2020 and the graduation on 17 June 2020. back to South Africa. The Gunners at that level. Thank you to the Russian war fighting with some tactics derived Revolutionary Armed Forces and they had things under control, It was at this prestigious graduation ceremony repatriation would have meant South African National Defence Force, from Vietnam and China. every able citizen. This concept Covid-19 happened and they had where I was awarded a medal of Servicio that students would not have the Revolutionary Armed Forces of gives Cuba the largest fighting to go under lockdown for six Distinguido (Distinguished Service) for Best completed the course. Since I Cuba, Artillery Formation, Colleagues Their posture is purely territorial defence with force per capita as an adversary weeks. Fortunately all objectives International Student. What made this award was on the standby list with and Friends. I salute you all!

26 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 27 SA Soldier FOCUSONPEOPLE FOCUS ON PEOPLE SA Soldier How R Adm (JG) Dlamini led the way...

Article by: Mr Gert Witbooi, Navy News Editor Photos by Leading Seaman Stacey Africa and AB Samantha Erasmus

he South African Navy's Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Naval Base Simon's TTown, Rear Admiral (Junior Grade) Joseph Dlamini, headed Operation NOTLELA in the Western Cape. Commanding an integrated Services operation in support of the SA Police Service, he criss-crossed the province, attending to road blocks, visiting rural and R Adm (JG) Dlamini sanitises the hands of children in the community of Bonteheuwel, Cape Town urban communities to enforce the National where door-to-door mass screening for Covid-19 was conducted by the South African Military State of Disaster lockdown regulations. Health Service. (photo by: Able Seaman Samantha Erasmus)

After Op NOTLELA came to an end on 30 How was the level of compliance among the experience for all of us as it was The Public Relations was a good September 2020 Mr Gert Witbooi asked him communities with which you have interacted? something that had never example. I am very proud of some questions. In the beginning it was difficult. The level of happened before, where an officer them; they were always equal to compliance with the Disaster Management Act of my rank level had to command their tasking. What did your job entail as Head of Western Cape regulations was very poor, especially in an operation in this manner. crowded residential areas such as Any other final comments? Operation NOTLELA? The South African Navy's Flag Officer Commanding Naval Base I was appointed as the Commander of the Simon's Town, Rear Admiral (Junior Grade) Joseph Dlamini Masiphumelele and Joe Slovo. In the beginning, I was appointed I think it’s worth mentioning Interim Provincial Command Western Cape (IPC back at his desk after returning from duty at Operation the General Officer Commanding, that we also deployed a team of WC). My duties and responsibilities were to NOTLELA(photo by: Leading Seaman Stacey Africa) The living conditions in those areas do not which is Army terminology. engineers from the Engineering represent the SA National Defence Force allow for proper social distancing as shacks However, as we progressed, I Formation who were responsible (SANDF) during forums and meetings where the As IPC WC I was also mandated to visiting communities? Were people are too close to each other, hence the managed to convince the Joint for purifying water in discussions are based on Covid-19. As part of my exercise Command and Control co-operative or were they irritated? enforcement of regulations by security forces Operation Headquarters (JOPS HQ) Clanwilliam. Between the Op NOTLELA responsibility, I co-chaired two over mandated Joint Force Firstly, we have to understand was difficult. It also took some serious that I should be addressed as Flag months of June and October 2020 forums. Employment operations with the that, as the SANDF, we were advocacy to convince community members to Officer Commanding because I am over a million litres of fresh allocated force levels and assets in deployed in support of the SAPS comply. a Naval Officer. water were produced as part of I was the co-chair of the Provincial Joint support of the people within the and Department of Health. So, on a humanitarian aid. Committee Meetings (PROVJOCOM) that were designated Area of Responsibility. daily basis, we supported the As a Sailor, how did you find working with Do you think the State has done held every morning at the South African Police police when they carried out other Arms of Service and security services, enough in trying to curb the I also want to take this Service (SAPS) Provincial Operational Co- My primary focus was to roadblocks on Vehicle Control such as the police and municipal law pandemic? opportunity to thank the Chief of ordination Centre Western Cape. The strengthen the SANDF leadership Points at outpost and metropole enforcement agencies? Oh yes, the State did enough as far the South African Navy for the PROVJOCOM was attended by all state representation at the liaison, by areas. SAPS members were It was very interesting and exciting and one of as I am concerned. Hence we now opportunity he afforded me to department representatives where issues coordinating, planning and responsible for conducting my greatest experiences, especially regarding find ourselves in Level 1. gain this experience. relating to the state of the province regarding making decisions at the Joint searches on vehicles at roadblocks, the fact that I was a co-chair with the Major- Covid-19 were discussed. Inter-Departmental and Inter- while SANDF members were General from the SAPS. The respect that I How did members of the Navy I would like to remind our Agency forums and committees in providing protection. received from other security agencies was conduct themselves during Op members that our invisible The second forum that I co-chaired was the the province as part of the entire During the awareness and mass unbelievable. Having to provide guidance and NOTLELA? enemy is not yet defeated. This Provincial Core Command Group where the government effort in the fight screening in support of direction to those inter-departmental Navy members conducted pandemic has affected us all. Our adherence to the Disaster Management Act against the Covid-19 pandemic. Department of Health, our medical committees was incredible. themselves very well. They way of living will never be the regulations was discussed on the operational teams were warmly welcomed in displayed a high standard of same again. So, let's continue level. This forum was attended by What were some of your communities. Community The Joint Tactical Headquarters Western Cape discipline. As expected, they washing our hands, sanitising, representatives from SAPS, SANDF, Metro Police experiences during days you went members were co-operative at all (JTAC HQ WC) personnel were equally carried out their duties wearing masks and practising and provincial traffic authorities. out into the field, to roadblocks or times. welcoming and supportive. It was a great professionally as they always do. social distancing.

28 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 29 SA Soldier TRIBUTE FACT FILE SA Soldier RegionalWorks Unit Limpopo builds a home SA Army for an elderly lady ith the dawn of democracy in and stability internally and externally in 1994 the SA Army was concurrence with international obligations; and to Westablished as the senior contribute to the development and upliftment of Article by Capt Julia Mondlane, Service of the new South African National South Africa, its people, and the African continent. Corp Com Officer Regional Works Defence Force. Its seniority derives from Unit Limpopo the Defence Act, 42 of 2004, which in The is therefore required to develop and sustain Photos by Khumo Segano, Defence Section 12(1) lists the SA Army first, the ability to generate sufficient numbers of fully Works Formation Webmaster. followed by the SA Air Force, SA Navy and trained, multi-purpose, combat-ready forces to the SA Military Health Service, thereby meet its responsibility towards South Africa’s t was in April 2011 when Project setting an order of precedence. The SA defence and security objectives. Lebaka, The service Corps, Army is the largest Service in the South IDirectorate Facilities and African National Defence Force. Vision Directorate Facilities Support The SA Army, a professional and dynamic force. Management merged to form the The mandate of the SA Army is to provide combat-ready land forces for the Mission The house built by Regional pursuance of national defence and the To prepare, provide and sustain land forces for Works Unit Limpopo for an elderly and disabled woman prevention of war, failing which, to jointly employment by Chief of the South African National after years of living in a and preferably multi-nationally, swiftly Defence Force as and when instructed by the dilapidated shack. and decisively achieve national security Commander-in-Chief who is the incumbent goals; and collaboratively promoting peace President of South Africa. legacy which it has built in the community - which resonates with the functions of the Defence Force. He indicated that what the unit had done hinged on the mandate of the South African National Defence Force which is to provide sufficient support to the citizens of this country. Regional Works Unit Limpopo further adopted Mpopuleng Centre at Ga-Matlala village, Sekutupu Old age centre in Zebediela and other local Col Bennedict Manzini and his team also donated clothes and other families. The old age home in goods to the family. Zebediela was chosen as a legacy Defence Works Capability under the command of living in a small shack in project ahead of the 2020 Armed Chief Logistics. Matsakali village. In an act of Forces Day in Limpopo province. It The Defence Works Formation as the level 3 Ubuntu, the local Pastor and Col was officially unveiled by the structure of the Logistics Division, is aimed at Manzini affectionately known as Minister of Defence and Military providing efficient, effective and economical ‘Black Mamba’, donated bricks Veterans, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa- operational level facility management in support and sand to build a decent shelter Nqakula. of the strategic objectives of the Department of for the desperate family. The unit Member of the Executive Council Defence. Regional Works Unit Limpopo under the with the assistance of the local (MEC) for Social Development, Ms leadership of the Defence Works Formation as a community, managed to build the Nkakareng Rakgoale, during the level 4 unit, is thriving in championing the art of family a 5 roomed house and handover ceremony of the facility improvement not only for the DoD but also donated food, clothes and refurbished old age home mentioned for the needy community of South Africa. furniture. that the entire provincial leadership Col Bennedict Manzini, the Officer Maj Gen Joseph Ledwaba, the was grateful for the SANDF’s legacy Commanding of Regional Works Unit Limpopo has General Officer Commanding project. She said the work of the aligned himself and his unit with the social Defence Works Formation, Department of Defence was a responsibility concept. The unit’s attention was expressed his gratitude to welcome gesture in the area as it attracted by the indigent living conditions of a Regional Works Unit Limpopo. He changed the lives of frail and disabled woman and her five children who were commended the unit on the great vulnerable members in communities.

30 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 31 SA Soldier INSIGHT INSIGHT SA Soldier Alternative power sources deployed at 1 Military hospital

Written by Lt Gugulethu Malatsi, SO3 Corp Comm 1 Military Hospital Photographs by Lt Thabo Tukula, SAMHS News Photo-Journalist

n the midst of the unfortunate Covid-19 pandemic, South IAfrica, like most countries finds itself under pressure to try to curb and mitigate the spread of the

RIGHT: The Secretary for Defence, Amb Khudjoe welcomed by the generals at 1 Military Hospital during the presentation on the fuel cell One of the hydrogen containers deployed at 1 Military Hospital. system by the department of Science and Innovation. Coronavirus in the most efficient and effective Programme, was a public-private decline, after which the systems way. The pandemic has highlighted the need to partnership between the will be redeployed to other sites respond with speed and flexibility, particularly Department of Science and throughout South Africa to assist in in providing high care facilities for those who Innovation (DSI), Department of powering public infrastructure in need them most. On the 19th of August 2020, Public Works and Infrastructure support of the National Energy Hydrogen fuel cell systems were unveiled at 1 (DPWI), the Department of Efficiency Strategy and Green Military Hospital. Seven hydrogen fuel cell Defence (DoD); Bambili Energy, Buildings Policy. The Secretary for systems will be used as the primary power HyPlat and international Defence, Ambassador Sonto source for a field hospital as part of the companies; PowerCell Sweden, Khudjoe said that it was government’s response to Covid-19. Hydrogen Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies encouraging that there was an fuel cells can be deployed at short notice to (Singapore) and Element 1 opportunity to scale up the project. provide a clean source of energy, even when the Corporation (USA). The Hydrogen “We can extend the systems to need is only temporary. South Africa Programme was many parts of the country and established with the view to relieve the burden on Eskom, while The unveiling was attended by the Secretary for enable the health system to cope transferring skills in the Defence Ambassador Gladys Sonto Kudjoe, Dr with potential demand for life development of hydrogen fuel cells Phil Mjwara, Director General of the saving equipment. in the country”, said Amb Khudjoe. Department of Science and Innovation, Maj Gen This project does not only Ntshavheni Maphaha, Chief Director Military Five of the fuel cells use hydrogen showcase fuel cell as a source of Health Force Preparation of the South African gas and have been deployed by clean energy, it also demonstrates Military Health Services(SAMHS) who attended Bambili Energy Group and local the efficacy of fuel cells and their on behalf of the Surgeon General; Maj Gen partners with Sasol; Air products ability to be deployed rapidly and Joseph Ledwaba, the General Officer and Protea Chemicals, who have be scaled up based on the needs of Commanding of Defence Works Formation and generously contributed towards the facility because they are Brig Gen Robert Skosana the General Officer the refueling of the systems up to modular in nature. The Commanding of 1 Military Hospital and various March 2021. The fuel cells will be accessibility and availability of stakeholders from the private sector. deployed at 1 Military Hospital such alternative energy sources until the end of March 2021 as this could result in securing a is the time frame that the peak in consistent and more energy FLTR: Maj Gen Joseph Ledwaba, Amb Sonto Kudjoe, Dr phil Mjwara, Ms Zanele Mavuso and Maj Gen The Hydrogen fuel cell systems project Maphaha standing in front of one of the containers with the hydrogen devices developed under the Hydrogen South Africa Covid-19 patients is expected to efficient future for South Africans.

32 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 33 SA Soldier INSIGHT INSIGHT SA Soldier

loved ones and friends all alone in a cabin. existing training. It’s important to Molefe was taken on a detailed tour Focus on Covid-19 Facilities Team This had a huge psychological effect on the keep to the basics of military of inspection to the three members, thus we made ourselves available to discipline, hygiene and following operational facilities. First up was stay in the evenings and converse with them and instructions.” the holding facility, building 601 encourage them.” “Covid-19 has taught us that situated at Charlie berth in the When asked about the fatality rate in the each job we perform in the military Dockyard where members are kept period that he had been Officer-in-Charge, Cdr is important, from the Officer after being tested and while Ryklief replied that over the three months of Commanding of the ship to the awaiting results and which can managing the facilities they were utilised by just person scrubbing the deck. It’s very accommodate 50 members at full Article and photos by AB over 100 people but, thankfully, nobody lost their important for our Sailors to know capacity. Samantha Erasmus - Navy News lives to the virus. that if they are expected to The other two facilities were the Photojournalist WO1 Griffith emphasised that they were very perform their duties in war time, isolation site at Signal School, which lucky to have worked with a great duty watch. He the Navy will be able to look after at full capacity can house 36 members who have been found he South African Navy mentions Able Seaman Serena Narainsamy as one them even in peace time,” said Cdr positive; and the quarantine site, established its first Covid-19 out of many who performed her duties with Ryklief. which can house up to 74 members facility at its Naval Base excellence and zeal. He said that most of the Prior to the directive for all T who need to be in quarantine as a Simon’s Town at the start of the junior ratings working as Covid-19 duty watch members to report to work from 1 precautionary measure because nationwide lockdown in March have left him feeling incredibly proud and added: October 2020, the Fleet Covid-19 they have crossed provincial lines 2020. Building 577 in the East Yard “The duty watch staff should be aware of the facilities managers had been or attended a funeral. When Master was identified as a quarantine enormous difference they made not just by operating on a rotational basis with Molefe visited the Covid-19 facilities facility and utilised for the first on 21 August 2020, there was one three months of lockdown. Cdr Rustim Ryklief and WO1 Quintin Graffith inspecting the quarantine member in holding, 14 members in The facility was meant to site, building 577 at Signal School. quarantine and none in isolation. accommodate live-in members, who could not self-isolate at their homes in other could accommodate 36 members essential items forced the team to MWO Mgwazeni explained how provinces. However, any member could request at full capacity for quarantine think out of the box. this experience has impacted his to be accommodated in the facility. purposes. On occasions, because of the life: “It has been overwhelming for The initial planning and implementation A 24-hour duty watch system short time-frame in which to get the me, especially for the people who process for a Covid-19 facility was managed by was later established. The duty building into full operation, the are at the facilities because that is Commander (Cdr) Rustim Ryklief and Warrant watch went through Covid-19 Commander and Warrant Officer where you gain real life experience Officer Class 1 (WO1) Quintin Griffith. In a training which was supervised by purchased items out of their own of the pandemic. When I see the combined interview with the team, they the Institute of Maritime Medicine pockets. fear in people’s eyes, not knowing if explained the procedure in detail and described in Simon’s Town and involved Recalling the first Covid-19 they are positive or not, it’s truly their work as ‘rewarding’. brief medical and patient care positive case, Cdr Ryklief said: “WO1 heart-breaking to witness a person The decision was made to use building 577 as handling and learning the basics Griffith, at his own expense, would so vulnerable.” a primary site for Covid-19 cases and Signal of how to run a ward. buy sachets of coffee and hot “The isolation facility we have School as the isolation site in cases where The duty guards’ daily chocolate to help keep the morale of was not as ‘homely’ as it could members tested positive for the virus. Building responsibilities were to look after members high and their spirits warm, possibly be. However, we always 577, previously known as the Martello building, members reporting in for as it had become, literally and encourage the Divisional Officers had been utilised in the past as accommodation quarantine. Initially the number of figuratively, very cold in the and Officers Commanding (OCs) to From left Lt Cdr Nhlakanipho Biyela, Master of the SA Navy, SCWO Matee visit their members. Recently we facilities by Harbour Master staff. cases was unpredictable. evenings. Molefe and MWO Kagisho Mgwazeni The building had stood abandoned for many According to WO1 Griffith, “On a The team unanimously explained installed a telephone and I years and was initially identified for Project BIRO Friday the duty watch would be that at an early stage they became serving the patients, but by serving the entire three teams overseeing and encourage members to call their (vessel acquisition project). However, when looking after one member in like parents to the members who Defence Force.” managing the facilities since the loved ones frequently,” said MWO Covid-19 caught the world by surprise the quarantine and by the Saturday were in the quarantine facilities. Cdr Ryklief said that they learnt as much start of lockdown. Mgwazeni. decision was made to immediately change its evening we would have 20 people Because the members were alone and from the juniors as the juniors learnt from On 21 August 2020, Master of the According to Lt Cdr Biyela this purpose. reporting for quarantine.” isolated from loved ones for two them. He feels it is very important for Divisional South African Navy, Senior Chief experience has contributed to the The building was in a dilapidated condition The challenges experienced by weeks at a time, the management Officers (DOs) to take their duties seriously and Warrant Officer Matee Molefe, national efforts of flattening the and was refurbished by the Facilities Department. the team as they prepared the team had to encourage and keep visit their members who were either affected or visited the Covid-19 facilities in curve country-wide. He urged OCs However, it still required a lot of work and faced building were coupled with the them reassured. infected by the virus and added: “DOs should Simon’s Town. He was given a and DOs to let go of their fear and to with the rapid increase in Covid-19 cases, the fact that the majority of Navy Cdr Ryklief added: “In the make an effort and show interest, and even use guided tour by Lieutenant visit their members while observing team needed to think on their feet. WO1 Griffith members had started a 1-in-4 beginning people were unsure about small gestures like bringing magazines to Commander Nhlakanipho Biyela the necessary hygiene measures. described the initial planning stages as “chaotic”. watch system when lockdown was Covid-19 with some treating it as a members in quarantine.” and Master Warrant Officer (MWO) On completion of the tour A team from Naval Base Simon’s Town was announced. This affected services death sentence. The first positive He says the pandemic has become the new Kagisho Mgwazeni, the last Officer- Master Molefe expressed his delight allocated to form a cleaning party. Members and receiving supplies for the patient really thought it was the end normal. "People need to make that shift and by in-Charge of the Covid-19 facilities. and said: “In order to reduce worked day and night to get the building ready. refurbishment of the building. The of the road for him. Picture a member being in the military we have the advantage of Since building 577 is no longer infection rates, we as the Navy need On completion of the refurbishment, the building frustrations caused by the lack of not from Cape Town, away from being disciplined and trained to supplement our in use as a quarantine site, Master to remain disciplined.”

34 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 35 SA Soldier INSIGHT VISIT SA Soldier Military Ombud addresses delegates during CAS Log, Maj Gen Jacobs Staff visit to AFB the 12th International Conference of Ombud Langebaanweg Institutions for the Armed Forces (ICOAF)

Article: Sgt Martin Koopman Photos by: F Sgt Deborah Guthrie and Cpl Keabetswe Kgori Article and photos by Mr Ntshengedzeni Singo, South n 04 September 2020, the African Military Ombud Chief of Air Staff Logistics Communication Officer O(CAS LOG) Maj Gen Tersia Jacobs and her delegation visited Air peaking during the opening of the Force Base (AFB) Langebaanweg. The 12th Virtual International contingent was welcomed by the SConference of Ombud Institutions Acting Officer Commanding (OC) Col for the Armed Forces (ICOAF) on 26 Donavan Chetty and members of his October 2020, the South African Maj Gen Tersia Jacobs arrival Military Ombud Lt Gen (Ret) Vusumuzi Military Ombud, Lt Gen (Ret) Vusumuzi Masondo at AFB Langebaanweg. Masondo said multi-sectoral collaboration and transparency by state Lt Gen (Ret) Masondo pointed out oversight could also help capacitate She emphasised the importance of institutions entrusted with investigations can lessons learned from the recent the existing military competences SAAF bases and Headquarters go a long way in the speedy resolutions of deployment of soldiers to enforce including crisis planning, command (SAAF HQ) working in tandem for complaints lodged by those who were the law during the lockdown of and control, logistics, and specialist the general success of the SAAF. aggrieved. the country due to Covid-19. medical support. CAS Log said she expected monthly “There is a need for “Pre- feedback on challenges and follow- Collaboration with the investigation on the deployment Civilian-Handling In conclusion, he said the recent ups. She further expatiated on death of Collins Khosa, allegedly at the hands of Readiness” training for SANDF developments offered an taking ownership and being part of members of the SANDF and the South African members in order to minimise opportunity for Ombud institutions the solution is expected from all law enforcement members, the Military Ombud foreseeable heavy-handedness to revisit their role of visible members of the SAAF. said his Office engaged with both the when interacting with civilians. monitoring, mediating, objective Independent Police Inspectorate Directorate This resonates with the evolving and balanced reporting, and ensure In a presentation to Maj Gen Jacobs, (IPID) mandated to investigate South African roles of the armed forces from that trust is earned and sustained the OC Aircraft Servicing Centre, Lt Police Services (SAPS) and municipal police combat to non-combat situations through proper governance and Col Shaun Krϋgel focused on logistical issues and challenges that services, and the South African Human Rights such as Covid-19 deployment,” democratic practises within the Presentation by Lt Col Shaun Krϋgel at CFS Vampire hall. Commission (SAHRC) so that the merits of the said the South African Military armed forces. the base was dealing with. During complaints were accessed without prejudice. Ombud. Base Command Council. On arrival CAS LOG was The purpose of the visit was to his presentation Col Krϋgel also The Office of the South African received by a quarter guard. ascertain the optimum functioning expressed his appreciation to the The conference took place from 26 – 30 October He emphasised that the provision Military Ombud’s mandate is to of the Air Servicing Units. members that support him and also under the theme, “Impact of COVID-19 on and acceleration of oversight over investigate complaints lodged by In adhering to stringent Covid-19 mitigating “Serviceability of South African Air the relationship between 2 Air Ombud Institutions for the Armed Forces.” and the fundamental human rights of current and former members of measures, upon arrival the delegation was Force (SAAF) aircrafts is important Servicing Unit (2 ASU), Central hosted in collaboration with the Geneva Centre both the armed forces and the the South African National Defence screened by the South African Military Health and central to the existence and Flying School and the Technical for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces public will bolster the efforts of Force(SANDF) concerning their Service (SAMHS) medical personnel. After the mandate of the Air Force. If the Section. (DCAF). DCAF is a gathering of Ombud building trust and must be conditions of service as well as welcoming, Maj Gen Jacobs thanked the Acting SAAF is to achieve its mandate, we institutions for the armed forces from over 50 expedited. Furthermore, the Office members of the public concerning OC for hosting the delegation. She said it was a need to be committed to achieving In closing, Maj Gen Jacobs conveyed countries around the world which was of the Military Ombud through its the official conduct of members. privilege for her to be at AFB Langebaanweg, our goals. Although we suffered her appreciation for the level of established with the aim of developing best investigations and The complaints form is available indicating that the continuous engagement huge budget cuts, we need to commitment members of AFB practices relating to the mandate, powers and recommendations, has for download on between Air Command Council and bases was understand our business”, said the Langebaanweg portrayed in the functioning of these institutions. increasingly noticed that www.milombud.org. important. Chief of Air Staff Logistics. execution of their duties.

36 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 37 SA Soldier VISIT VISIT SA Soldier

Ms Allison van der Walt, an Joint Staff Visit Cements Relationships Industrial Psychologist and the Hub Manager, presented detailed and very interesting briefings about the Hub and the programmes that are being presented there. Special attention is given to Drone Training and Aquaponics Farming. After their visit to Vredenburg, Article by Lt Col Johan Conradie, SO1 PO WC the delegation had the opportunity and Mrs Regine Lord to compare the YES Saldanha Hub Photos by: Sgt Shane Baartman Aquaponics training centre (which incidentally yields enough produce joint staff visit consisting of the Defence to make the centre financially self- Reserves Division (Def Res Div) and the sufficient) with that of a bona fide AC SANDF Project KOBA-TLALA team visited Aquaponics farm in Hopefield. At the Western Cape recently. The delegation was the Aquaponics farm, Veggietails, jointly led by Brig Gen Debbie Molefe, Director Members of the AgriSciences team with Brig Gen Molefe and the delegation was received by the Defence Reserves, and Brig Gen Gerhard Kamffer, Brig Gen Kamffer owner, Mr Alwyn Geyser, and his Director SA Army Reserves and Project Director Stellenbosch University (SU), then NuWater partners business leaders with business partner, Dr Oyuma Guwa. of Project KOBA-TLALA. The purpose of the visit Systems (Pty) Ltd in Muizenberg and finally principals in under-resourced Veggietails was started in 2017, and listening to presentations by Partners for schools to develop their leadership is now delivering greens and micro Brig Gen Molefe and some of Possibility (PfP) and Youth@worK. At the Faculty skills and knowledge in these greens to various restaurants and the Officers visiting the facility households in Hopefield and at Sakhulwazi. of AgriSciences, Dr Khalid Sadie and Mr Henk schools, in order to lead change and Stander addressed the delegation on Aquaculture to mobilise the communities beyond. The business is now at a point of expansion after partnering does so by embedding military units as a specialised discipline within SU. around their schools. Youth@worK with Dr Oyuma Guwa. Dr Guwa in local rural economies, thereby Commander Louw Uys from the Military works closely with partners such as holds a MSc in Zoology creating additional capacity through Academy gave a feedback report on the progress PfP and Youth Employment Service (Aquaculture) and a PhD in the Reserves that can be utilised by of the West Coast Aquaculture Centre. The Centre (YES) to develop young people and Chemical Engineering the Provincial Government when is a collaboration between the Faculties of teach them specific skills, which are (Aquaponics feed development/ these Reserve members are not Military Science and AgriSciences at SU, and it further enhanced through Aquafeeds). utilised or called up for military will be located within the Saldanha Military Area. experience, thus empowering them At the end of Day 3, both Brig purposes. In addition, it also engages The aim of this High Impact Priority Project to gain permanent employment or Gen Molefe and Brig Gen Kamffer in the re-skilling and further (HIPP) is to support the goals of Government’s to become self-employed. concluded that all the programs education, training and development Operation Phakisa (using marine sources for food Day 2 had given the delegation visited could definitely provide of predominantly unemployed security) and the SANDF’s Project KOBA-TLALA much food for thought, as all the interfaces with the objectives of Reserve members in a variety of (ensuring food security in rural areas). information and insights gained Project KOBA-TLALA, and that the skills to enable their utilisation in At NuWater Systems in Muizenberg, the from the various visits can be Reserves could benefit from these their local communities. delegation was briefed on the company’s related to Project KOBA-TLALA. All linkages. The Joint Staff visit delegation. The morning session concluded operations and then went on a tour of the of the opportunities presented facilities. Most interesting was the voice- during the day fit in well with As with most of the projects, was to revive and enhance the relationship Majors (RSMs) on the outcome of with Brig Gen Molefe responding to activated water treatment training unit, which Project KOBA-TLALA and have however, financial support is of between Defence Reserves Division and the the recent C SA Army Indaba questions raised by the OCs about the was built to make water management training merits that can be considered critical importance. Given the Reserve Force (ResF) units in Cape Town. A solid about the Reserves. Col Edwill ResF service system and policy appealing to the youth especially. The company further. Brig Gen Molefe concluded general lack of such financial relationship between all reserve stakeholders Herandien, SSO Promotions and matters; a number of key messages operates in various focus sectors, but of the program of the day by support and the inability to assist all will support the promotion of the Updated ResF Marketing at Def Res Div HQ, were recorded for follow-up back at particular interest was the rural and NGO water providing guidelines for DRPOWC the projects all the time, HIPP Service System (URFSS). The visit further created presented Project SHIELD at the the HQ. treatment sector, as this relates to skills training and the Project KOBA-TLALA team should be identified to best utilise the opportunity to receive feedback on the national level. Project SHIELD is a The afternoon was spent at that could potentially be used by the ResF for its to further investigate the the opportunities that are purpose integration of support for and the progress made mechanism that enables the ResF Sakhulwazi Women’s Agricultural members. Reserves who are skilled in water possibilities. fit and applicable to the Reserves in with Project KOBA-TLALA at provincial level. units to market and promote the Cooperative in Philippi. Dovetailing treatment and water management would be The final day’s visit to the YES the Western Cape. Overall, it was On Day 1 the Lt Col Johan Conradie, Acting URFSS by popularising the ResF, into one of the objectives of Project easily deployable by Provincial Government and Saldanha Community Hub in concluded that, through Project Senior Staff Officer Defence Reserves Provincial creating awareness of the Reserves KOBA-TLALA, Lt Col Harold Gertse, could be used in communities. NuWater Systems Vredenburg was an extension of KOBA-TLALA, the URFSS and the Office Western Cape (A/SSO DRPOWC), gave a and engendering employer OC Chief Langabilalele Rifles, also spends considerable time and effort on the presentations given by Mrs Reserves as individuals could presentation on the role and functions of the support for the Reserves. volunteered his unit to take co- developing sustainable solutions to provide Batts and Mrs Kempken on Day 2. benefit from the integration and DRPOWC, how Project SHIELD could be utilised at With project KOBA-TLALA the ownership of this sub-project to potable water to rural communities. The YES Hub helps with building support of Project SHIELD and the the provincial level, the role and functions of the Department of Defence (DOD) aims assist Sakhulwazi to become a service After the NuWater walk-and-talk, the local business, bringing investment DRSBWC. Integration of all the Defence Reserve Support Board Western Cape to contribute to the provider, and to produce and deliver delegation listened to presentations by Partners and technology into the heart of projects and programmes at the (DRSBWC) and how the provincial office is developmental agenda of fresh produce to the local for Possibility (PfP) and Youth@worK in the the community and creating different levels of command will integrated with and supportive of Project KOBA- Government by focusing on using commercialised messes in Cape auditorium at NuWater. They were briefed by opportunities for the youth to also provide for closer liaison and TLALA. Brig Gen Kamffer made use of the the military footprint in the rural Town. Mrs Jessica Batts, Learning Process Facilitator at work. After the delegation had relationships between Project opportunity to brief all the ResF Officers and semi-rural areas to give effect Day 2 was spent visiting first the PfP and Mrs Erica Kempken, Director arrived at the centre, Mr Elmondo KOBA-TLALA, DRPOWC, Def Res Div Commanding (OCs) and Regimental Sergeant to decentralized procurement. It Faculty of AgriSciences at Youth@worK. PfP is a unique program that Paulse from Transnet and and the units.

38 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 39 SA Soldier SAMHSTRAINING FACT FILE SA Soldier SAMHS nurses receive intensive care SA Military Health Service management training for critical covid-19 SAMHS Mandate patients o support the SANDF by providing • Disaster relief primary, secondary and tertiary, • Assistance in maintaining essential Tholistic health services for SANDF health services community the full range of military • Support to other state departments and deployments (where and whenever institutions with regard to unique needed), and by sustaining the health of capabilities members of the armed forces, their • Health support to the SAPS as governed families and others eligible for care by the by agreemnent SAMHS. • Formulation of expert inputs with reference to policy planning Article by Lt Gugulethu Function • Health support to approved clientele Malatsi, SO3 Corp Comm • Provision of military health support • Diplomatic assistance operations 1 Military Hospital to the SANDF • Maintenance of chemical and biological • Regional and global military health defence capability n an effort to curb the co-operation and assistance • Military health research and spread of the Covid-19 • Provision of combat-ready military development Ipandemic, the South health forces • Occupational health surveillance and African Military Health • Preservation of life, health and hygiene assessments Presidential health Service (SAMHS) has taken property support. the responsibility to prepare and deploy Health Care Professionals to attend to the health care requirements of the Department of Defence (DOD) including health SAMHS nurses busy with their Intensive Care Management practical ventilation promotion and prevention. and dialysis training for critical covid-19 "patient" (Medical Mannequin patient or dummy patient)at Mafikeng This will assist in mitigating the spread of the virus and manage comprises of both theoretical and Eastern Cape. Some units in the Covid-19 infection within the military practical training. Mafikeng, Rustenburg, Bluff, and community. SAMHS Director Nursing Brig Limpopo have requested for the Gen Z. Maso devised a plan to expedite this The training team collaborated training team to come back and responsibility. The plan includes having with the Nursing College in the train members who were not able nurses and medical practitioners receiving process of securing Continuous to attend the training. Covid-19 mitigating training. Professional Development (CPD) points. Guided by Lt Col M.A. The training has also extended to A team led by Lt Col M.N. Mavuso from 1 Mapukata from the Nursing other multi-disciplinary teams Military hospital was deployed to all the College, the team compiled a where not only nurses were trained SAMHS units in the 9 provinces. The primary training manual within a short but Ops medics and health orderlies objective of the training is to equip SAMHS period of time, published on the (hospital attendants responsible for nurses with clinical skills of managing Covid- 13th of May 2020. Maj Chauke a the non-medical care of patients 19 acute and critically ill patients. This Nurse from 1 Military Hospital, and the maintenance of order and training is planned for all categories of nurses said that they received positive cleanliness). The ambulance functioning within the Military Health feedback from members at the personnel were also grateful as they environment. It also includes aspects on different units. Most members felt are expected to transport Covid-19 how nurses and medical practitioners can empowered and confident in being patients from their homes. The protect themselves during patient care. able to apply their capabilities and training has played a significant Furthermore, the training highlights the skills after training. In addition, role in assisting medical importance of medical practitioners she said they were able to provide practitioners in terms of Covid-19 protecting their families and communities. training for members from the patient care and has filled a The duration of the training is a week; which Department of Health in the foreseen gap.

40 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 41 SA Soldier HEALTHMATTERS HEALTH MATTERS SA Soldier Male Breast Cancer breast growth. Diseases of the liver, which is an important organ in male and female hormone metabolism, can change a man's hormone balance and lead to gynecomastia. Obesity can also cause higher levels of estrogen in men.

Some medicines can cause gynecomastia. These include some Researched and compiled by Mr Lufuno drugs used to treat ulcers and Netshirembe heartburn, high blood pressure, heart failure, and psychiatric What Is Men Breast Cancer? conditions. Men with gynecomastia should ask their reast cancer occurs mainly in doctors if any medicines they are women, but men can get it, too. taking might be causing this BMany people do not realize that men condition. have breast tissue and that they can develop breast cancer. Cells in nearly any Klinefelter syndrome, a rare part of the body can become cancer and genetic condition, can lead to Illustration B : Breast cancer can spread when the cancer cells get into gynecomastia as well as increase a can spread to other areas. the blood or lymph system. man's risk of developing breast Breast cancer starts when cells in the cells can enter lymph vessels and start to grow appear as a button-like or disk-like cancer. breast begin to grow out of control. These in lymph nodes. growth under the nipple and cells usually form a tumor that can often be areola (the dark circle around the Benign breast tumors - There seen on an x-ray or felt as a lump. The If the cancer cells have spread to your lymph nipple), which can be felt and are many types of benign breast tumor is malignant (cancer) if the cells can Illustration A : Types of breast tissue. nodes, there is a higher chance that the cells sometimes seen. Some men have tumors (abnormal lumps or grow into (invade) surrounding tissues or could have also traveled through the lymph more severe gynecomastia and masses of tissue), such as spread (metastasize) to distant areas of the aren't normally functional. provider to determine whether it is system and spread (metastasized) to other parts they may appear to have small papillomas and fibroadenomas. body. There are also types of breast benign or malignant (cancer) and of your body. The more lymph nodes with breasts. Although gynecomastia is Benign tumors do not spread cancer that start in other types whether it might impact your breast cancer cells, the more likely it is that the much more common than breast outside the breast and are not life Male breast tissue of breast cells, but these are future cancer risk. cancer may be found in other organs. Because of cancer in men, both can be felt as threatening. Benign breast less common. this, finding cancer in one or more lymph nodes a growth under the nipple, which tumors are common in women Until puberty (on average around age 9 or 10), A small number of cancers How breast cancer often affects your treatment plan. is why it's important to have any but are very rare in men. young boys and girls have a small amount of start in other tissues in spreads Usually, surgery to remove one or more lymph such lumps checked by your breast tissue consisting of a few ducts located the breast. These cancers Breast cancer can spread when the nodes will be needed to know whether the doctor. Types of Breast Cancer under the nipple and areola (area around the are called sarcomas and lymph cancer cells get into the blood or cancer has spread. in Men nipple). At puberty, a girl's ovaries make female omas and are not really lymph system and are carried to Gynecomastia is common among The most common types of breast hormones, causing breast ducts to grow and thought of as breast cancers. other parts of the body. The Still, not all men with cancer cells in their teenage boys because the balance cancer are ductal carcinoma in lobules to form at the ends of ducts. Even after Although many types of breast lymph system is a network of lymph lymph nodes develop metastases to other areas, of hormones in the body changes situ, invasive ductal carcinoma, puberty, boys and men normally have low levels cancer can cause a lump in the (or lymphatic) vessels found and some men can have no cancer cells in their during adolescence. It is also and invasive lobular carcinoma. of female hormones, and breast tissue doesn’t breast, not all do. It’s throughout the body. The lymph lymph nodes and later develop metastases. common in older men due to grow much. Men's breast tissue has ducts, but also important to understand vessels carry lymph fluid and changes in their hormone balance. Most breast cancers only a few if any lobules. that most breast lumps are connect lymph nodes. Lymph nodes Benign breast conditions are carcinomas. In fact, breast benign and not cancer are small, bean-shaped collections Men can also have some benign (not cancerous) In rare cases, gynecomastia occurs cancers are often a type of Where breast cancer starts (malignant). Benign breast of immune system cells. Lymph breast disorders. because tumors or diseases of carcinoma Breast cancers can start from different parts of tumors are abnormal growths, vessels are like small veins, except certain endocrine (hormone- called adenocarcinoma, which the breast. Most breast cancers begin in the but they do not spread outside that they carry a clear fluid called Gynecomastia - Gynecomastia is the most producing) glands cause a man's starts in cells that make glands ducts that carry milk to the nipple of the breast and they are not lymph (instead of blood) away from common male breast disorder. It is not a tumor body to make more estrogen (the (glandular tissue). Breast (ductal cancers). Some start in the glands that life threatening. Any breast the breast. Lymph contains tissue but rather an increase in the amount of a man's main female hormone). Men's adenocarcinomas start in the make breast milk (lobular cancers). Men have lump or change needs to be fluid and waste products, as well as breast tissue. Usually, men have too little breast glands normally make some ducts (the milk ducts) or the these ducts and glands, too, even though they checked by a health care immune system cells. Breast cancer tissue to be felt or noticed. Gynecomastia can estrogen, but not enough to cause lobules (milk-producing glands).

42 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 43 SA Soldier HEALTHMATTERS EVENTS SA Soldier

Male Breast Cancer (continued) breast. Paget disease may be associated with DCIS or with There are other, less common, types of breast Infiltrating (or invasive) ductal infiltrating ductal carcinoma. It is cancers, too, such as sarcomas, phyllodes, carcinoma - This is the most rare and accounts for about 1-3% of Paget’s disease and angiosarcomas which start common type of breast female breast cancers and a higher in the cells of the muscle, fat, or connective cancer. Invasive (or infiltrating) percentage (5%) of male breast tissue. Sometimes a single breast tumor can be a ductal carcinoma (IDC) starts in a cancers. combination of different types. And in some milk duct of the breast, breaks very rare types of breast cancer, the cancer cells through the wall of the duct, and Inflammatory breast cancer - may not form a lump or tumor at all. grows into the fatty tissue of the Inflammatory breast cancer is an breast. Once it breaks through the aggressive, but rare type of breast When a biopsy is done to find out the specific wall of the duct, it has the potential cancer. It makes the breast swollen, type of breast cancer, the pathologist also will to spread to other parts of the red, warm and tender rather than say if the cancer has spread in to the body. Invasive (or infiltrating) forming a lump. It can be mistaken surrounding tissues. The name of the breast ductal carcinoma (IDC) starts in a for an infection of the breast. This is cancer type will change depending on the milk duct of the breast, breaks very rare in men. extent of the cancer. through the wall of the duct, and grows into the fatty tissue of the Special types of invasive breast In situ breast cancers have not spread and breast. At this point, it may be able carcinoma -There are some special Invasive or infiltrating cancers have spread to spread (metastasize) to other types of breast cancer that are sub- (invaded) into the surrounding breast tissue. parts of the body through the types of invasive carcinoma. They lymphatic system and bloodstream. are much less common than the These general kinds of breast cancer can be At least 8 out of 10 male breast breast cancers named above. further described with the terms outlined cancers are IDCs (alone or mixed above. with other types of invasive or in Some of these may have a better or situ breast cancer). Because the worse prognosis than standard Ductal carcinoma in situ - Ductal carcinoma in male breast is much smaller than infiltrating ductal carcinoma. situ (DCIS; also known as intraductal carcinoma) the female breast, all male breast Adenoid cystic (or adenocystic) is considered non-invasive or pre-invasive cancers start relatively close to the carcinoma, Low-grade breast cancer. In DCIS (also known as nipple, so they are more likely to adenosquamous carcinoma (this is a intraductal carcinoma), cells that lined the spread to the nipple. This is type of metaplastic carcinoma), ducts have changed to look like cancer cells. different from Paget disease as Medullary carcinoma, Mucinous (or The difference between DCIS and invasive described below. colloid) carcinoma, Papillary cancer is that the cells have not spread carcinoma, Tubular carcinoma, (invaded) through the walls of the ducts into Infiltrating (or invasive) lobular Metaplastic carcinoma (including the surrounding tissue of the breast (or spread carcinoma - Invasive lobular spindle cell and squamous, except outside the breast). DCIS is considered a pre- carcinoma (ILC) starts in the milk- low grade adenosquamous cancer because some cases can go on to become producing glands (lobules). Like carcinoma), Micropapillary invasive cancers. Right now, though, there is no IDC, it can spread to other parts of carcinoma and mixed carcinoma good way to know for certain which cases will the breast and body. ILC is very (has features of both invasive ductal go on to become invasive cancers and which rare in men, accounting for only and lobular) ones won’t. DCIS accounts for about 1 in 10 about 2% of male breast cancers. cases of breast cancer in men. It is almost This is because men do not usually In general, these sub-types are still always curable with surgery. have much lobular (glandular) treated like standard infiltrating breast tissue. carcinoma. Lobular carcinoma in situ - Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) may also be called lobular Paget disease of the nipple - This Research references and neoplasia. In LCIS, cells that look like cancer type of breast cancer starts in the sources cells are growing in the lobules of the milk- breast ducts and spreads to the Cancer Association of South Africa producing glands of the breast, but they haven’t nipple. It may also spread to the (CANSA) (www.cansa.org.za) grown through the wall of the lobules. LCIS is areola (the dark circle around the WebMD (www.webmd.com) not a true pre-invasive cancer because it does nipple). The skin of the nipple Medicine Net.com not turn into an invasive cancer if left usually appears crusted, scaly, and (www.medicinenet.com) untreated, but it is linked to an increased risk of red, with areas of itching, oozing, National Cancer Institute (www.cancer.gov) invasive cancer in both breasts. LCIS is rarely, if burning, or bleeding. There may ever seen in men. also be an underlying lump in the Mayo Clinic (www.mayoclinic.org)

44 2020 Vol27 No10SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No10 2020 45 SA Soldier DEVOTION EVENTS SA Soldier Resting in the God of Grace

By Chaplain Dane Elsworth - King Cetshwayo Artillery Regiment

odern day life is not only busy but it is filled with pressures and stress too. MTechnology quite demanding on our time, emails SMS, WhatsApp etc. all want instant responses. Moreover there are financial, family and work demands that add to our stress. Cpln (Rev) Dane Elsworth, King Cetshwayo Artillery Regiment.

Throw all of this together and it can affect our reconciled, forgiven and that weary and burdened, and I will health, our sense of well being and cause anxiety, every moment in God’s Grace is a give you rest”. The invitation is concern and worry. Sometimes we don’t know new-beginning and opportunity to extended to all of us. With the gift how to deal with the pressure. We might not build on our relationship with God of grace comes the promise of even be able to see clearly and to keep our focus. through prayer and love. St. Paul rest. The biblical concept of We could be putting ourselves under pressure in Romans 5:1-2 confirms this, Resting in the Grace of God and stress through lifestyle choices that are “Therefore, since we have been implies Peace. Being at peace damaging to our health and to our loved ones. justified through faith we have within ourselves free of the We may be pushing ourselves to certain peace with God through our Lord draining effects of stress. An directions at the expense of our family life. Jesus Christ through whom we inner peace that gives us dignity, have gained access by faith into a sense of purpose and the As we can see, we have a lot to contend with in this grace which we now stand”. impunity to deal with life’s the daily journey of life and it can be tough pressures. especially if we feel vulnerable and even alone It is indeed wonderful that we can not knowing where to turn to or to go to for help. present ourselves before God just Resting in the Grace of God also We need to know and remind ourselves that God as we are because in His Love He implies the gift of the Wisdom of who so magnificently created this incredible gave us this free gift of grace. It is God. We know we don’t deserve universe, LOVES US. God is immensely concerned because of this magnanimity that God’s grace nevertheless He gives about our daily life; our social, mental, emotional we can share all the things in our it willingly and fully. Wisdom is and physical well-being. He wants us to be well, life with God, our burdens, joys the gift to accept it and to use it to live healthy lives in which we make good and and even the things we are in our daily life. positive choices. What God is also fully aware of ashamed of. It is in this presence is that due to life pressures, temptations and sin, of non-judgement that will begin Finally Resting in the Grace of we don’t always find it easy to serve Him the process to put our lives into God is where we belong. Being in religiously as we should. perspective, to prioritise the the Presence of God is our home. things and people that matter, to Our place of refuge where we are At the heart of the Christian faith we find the gift change the things that are deeply loved, forgiven, restored of God’s Grace. This is the free unmerited favour harmful. God’s Grace inspires us to and reconciled placing ourselves and love of God. It is fully manifested in Jesus live good and holy lives, loving in His hands in our eternal home. Christ. This Gift of Grace is given to us so that we others with this wonderful can enter into a proper relationship with God knowledge and experience of His This opportunity is there for all and to be able to enjoy the benefits and merits of Love. of us, it is available now. If need the saving work of Jesus. This means we can have be, ask your Chaplain to pray a relationship with God, Father, Son and Holy In St. Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus says, with you, to help you know that Spirit with confidence knowing that we are “Come to me, all you who are in God all things are possible.

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