SANDF played its part in flood relief mission

THE SANDF was deployed in Kwazulunatal after the devastating floods.

Its mandate was to assist with rescue missions and rebuilding, following the destruction wrought by the floods last month.

At least 10000 soldiers, who were deployed in batches, were on the ground. They were part of a multi-disciplinary response team tasked with supporting the SAPS search-and-rescue missions, assisting affected municipalities with mop-up operations and water distribution, rebuilding damaged public infrastructure and augmenting the artisan capability of the Department of Human Settlements.

Last week, the Chief of Joint Operations, Lieutenant-general Siphiwe Lucky Sangweni, visited SANDF members deployed as part of Operation Chariot in the province and held engagements with the Officers Commanding

the deployed forces about the successes and challenges they were experiencing.

He said the SANDF’S role during Operation Chariot was not to take over any of the existing law enforcement or service delivery agencies, but to give emergency support in order to allow the government agencies to continue the work they were mandated to do.

Sangweni visited temporary bases at the Durban Light Infantry, Prince Mshiyeni Hospital, Intake, Pinetown,

Mariannhill Juma Musjid, the New Germany Nature Reserve, Inanda Dam, Kwadukuza, Virginia Airport and Moses Mabhida, among others.

“Part of soldiering entails the ability to endure hardship, therefore we must not shy away from experiencing discomfort for the betterment of the country,” Sangweni told deployed troops. He went on to commend them on behalf of the senior leadership of the Department of Defence and the government.