The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) hosted a Media Launch on the 4th February in Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province, as part of the build-up to the 2026 Armed Forces Day (AFD) celebrations. The launch took place at the Thulamela Main Auditorium near Thavhani Mall, ahead of the main Armed Forces Day Parade and Wreath Laying Ceremony scheduled for 21 February 2026.
Addressing members of the media were the Chief of the SANDF, General Rudzani Maphwanya, and the Mayor of the Thulamela Local Municipality, Councillor Sarah Rambuda, accompanied by the Chief Executor and Chief of the SA Army, Lieutenant General Lawrence Mbatha, and the Chairperson of the Armed Forces Day 2026 Steering Committee, Brigadier General Abram Nthenjane.
General Maphwanya said the purpose of the media launch was to equip journalists with relevant information about Armed Forces Day, urging the media to serve as the voice of the SANDF as it continues to serve and protect the people of South Africa. He emphasised that the hosting of Armed Forces Day is not about being fashionable, but rather a clear demonstration of the SANDF’s unwavering commitment to defending the country and its citizens.
He further highlighted that Armed Forces Day is commemorated in honour of the SS Mendi troopship, which sank on 21 February 1917 after colliding with the cargo ship Darro in the English Channel. The tragedy claimed the lives of 646 black South African troops of the South African Native Labour Corps (SANLC). The ceremony will also honour all SANDF members who have lost their lives in the line of duty, both locally and abroad.
Councillor Rambuda warmly welcomed the SANDF to Thulamela, affirming that the municipality is ready to host the 2026 Armed Forces Day celebrations. She expressed appreciation for the noble service rendered by SANDF members and noted the excitement among the local youth, who are eagerly looking forward to the historic event.
According to the Chief SANDF, the 2026 AFD programme will feature a career expo at the fun park, SANDF static displays, and an interfaith church service bringing together all faith denominations. The main Armed Forces Day celebrations will take place at Thavhani Mall along the R524 (Phunda Maria Road) in Thohoyandou. All Arms of Service of the SANDF will take the salute from the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, accompanied by a multi-aircraft fly-past by the South African Air Force (SAAF).
The AFD Parade will be preceded by a Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Memorial Site, where the Commander-in-Chief and President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency President Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa, will lay a wreath in honour of the fallen heroes of the SS Mendi.
