South Africa: President Cyril Ramaphosa officiates Armed Forces Day as Commander-in-Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), on February 21, 2026 in Thohoyandou, Limpopo.
Reportedly, Armed Forces Day is observed annually on February 21 to commemorate the sinking of the SS Mendi on February 21, 1917. The sinking of the SS Mendi remains one of the greatest tragedies of South Africa of the First World War (1914 to 1918). It is a total of 616 black South African troops who lost their lives when the vessel sank en-route to France.
The President will further commence the ceremony by laying a wreath at the Thohoyandou Memorial Site. He will then observe a multi-aircraft fly-past by the South African Air force before delivering the keynote address.
PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA TO OFFICIATE ARMED FORCES DAY
Commander-in-Chief of the South African National Defence Force President @CyrilRamaphosa officiates #ArmedForcesDay today in Thohoyandou, Limpopo.
Armed Forces Day is observed annually on 21 February to commemorate the sinking… pic.twitter.com/UP0ABcw735
— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) February 21, 2026
#ArmedForcesDay seeks to deepen the public understanding of the role of the SANDF in the life of the nation and to demonstrate through live military simulations, considering the capabilities of the Army, Navy, Air Force and the South African Military Health Service.
The occasion was observed around 10:00 a.m. at Thavhani Mall, Phunda maria Road, Thohoyandou. The Department of Defence and Military Veterans called for media accreditation, which is closed. Media enquiries in this regard should be directed to the department.
Earlier, SANDF conducted its final rehearsal ahead of Armed Forces Day. This solemn rehearsal served as a tribute to the fallen heroes who perished in the tragedy and reaffirmed the SANDF’s enduring legacy of service, sacrifice, and unity.
The parade was observed along Thohoyandou Punda Maria Road, where the people of Venda were honoured with an impressive marching column drawn from all four arms of service. The synchronised drill movements, precision marching, and disciplined formations reflected months of preparation and underscored the professionalism and cohesion of the Defence Force.
It complemented the marching troops which mechanised columns showcasing the SANDF’s prime mission equipment, that is currently used in operations. These assets demonstrate the force’s operational readiness and technological capability.
While reinforcing the message that Armed Forces Day is not only a moment of remembrance, but also a proud display of a defence force that remains vigilant, capable, and is committed to safeguarding the Republic and its people.