President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa's ongoing struggle with historical injustices from the 1900s during his keynote speech at the Armed Forces Day celebrations in Thohoyandou, Limpopo. He focused on the unrecognized contributions of black soldiers in World War I, including those affected by the SS Mendi sinking. The event commemorates the 646 servicemen who perished when their troop ship sank in February 1917.
President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the keynote address at the annual Armed Forces Day celebrations held in Thohoyandou, Limpopo, on February 21, 2026. In his speech, he emphasized that South Africa continues to grapple with the painful legacy of injustice that dates back to the 1900s. This legacy includes the discrimination faced by black South Africans, particularly in military contexts during historical conflicts.
Ramaphosa specifically referenced black soldiers who served in World War I, noting that survivors of the tragic sinking of the SS Mendi were never properly recognized for their bravery and sacrifice. The SS Mendi incident, in which 646 servicemen lost their lives when the troop ship sank in February 1917, forms a key part of the commemoration. He pointed out that such events deepened divisions in the country due to unfair treatment at the time.
"Black South Africans volunteered to support the British war efforts, they were denied combat roles, in other ways they were denied bearing arms and to go into war and they were denied equal military status. After the war, they received little recognition compared to white soldiers who came from our country," Ramaphosa stated.
The Armed Forces Day event honors the sacrifices of military personnel and serves as a reminder of past inequities. Ramaphosa's remarks underscore the long-term impact of historical discrimination on national unity and recognition of service.