President Cyril Ramaphosa: Armed Forces Day

class="content-type-titleAddress by the President of the Republic of South Africa and the Commander-in-Chief of the South African National Defence Force, Cyril Ramaphosa, on the occasion of the Armed Forces DayMinister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa Nqakula,brMinisters and Deputy Ministers present,brPremier of the Province of the Northern Cape, Ms Sylvia Lucas,brSecretary for Defence, Dr Sam Makhudu Gulube,brChief of the South African National Defence Force, General Solly Shoke, brGenerals, Admirals, Officers, Warrant Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers,brMilitary Veterans,brDistinguished Guests,brLadies and Gentlemen,I am honoured to be back in Kimberely for the second time in four days to join the South African National Defence Force and the people of the Northern Cape in hosting Armed Forces Day.At the interfaith service I attended on Sunday, I saw in our armed forces a reflection of the South Africa we are constantly seeking to build.

I saw the diversity of our country enveloped in your uniforms.I saw just as I witness today black and white South Africans, young and old, men and women, together.

I saw discipline, commitment and professionalism.And I saw the warmth of our national character shining through.

The participation of all faiths in the Sunday event was a reminder of the inclusive society we are building.It was heartening to see the wonderful, creative talent of men and women in uniform on display.

On Sunday, it was our men and women in uniform who lifted the spirit of our nation through the soaring voices of soloists, trumpeters, saxophonists and the vibrant defence choir.So when we look at our armed forces we see a manifestation of the South Africa that belongs to all of us, black and white, which our Constitution directs us to build.

This day is a reminder that our soldiers are an integral part of us, not an external force.You are bedrock of our communities.

You are our mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, friends, neighbours.We dare not fail to appreciate how the peace we enjoy lives alongside the constant vigilance and readiness that enables you to keep us as safe as we are.

You are opening incredible opportunities for young people in both the public and private sectors.South Africa's defence technology is globally sought after.

Much of our technological capability shows that we are well positioned, through our armed forces, to participate in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.This has established our...