Ramaphosa Orders Troop Deployment to Combat South African Crime

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the deployment of the South African National Defence Force to work alongside the police force. This action is intended to address escalating gang violence and other criminal activities threatening the nation. Ramaphosa delivered the announcement during his annual state of the nation address.

Addressing Organized Crime

Ramaphosa stated that organized crime now poses the most immediate threat to South Africa’s democracy, society, and economic development. He highlighted the impact of gang wars in the Western Cape, where children are caught in the crossfire, and illegal mining activities in Gauteng, which displace residents. The president emphasized the need for decisive action to combat these issues.

Crime Statistics and Measures

South Africa experiences a high homicide rate, with approximately 60 deaths daily attributed to gang violence and illegal mining. To address this, Ramaphosa announced plans to recruit 5,500 new police officers and bolster intelligence gathering to identify priority crime syndicates. He also noted the significant economic cost of crime, including lost lives, fear, and reduced business investment.

Illegal Mining and “Zama Zamas”

Authorities have struggled to prevent gangs of miners, known as “zama zamas,” from illegally accessing abandoned mines. These miners, often undocumented foreign nationals involved in crime syndicates, are typically armed. South Africa has reportedly lost over $3 billion in gold to the illegal mine trade in 2024 alone.

Local Government and Water Crisis

Ramaphosa also addressed the ongoing water crisis, attributing it to a failing local government system. He pledged to hold municipal officials accountable for failing to provide adequate water supply to communities, particularly in light of recent protests in Johannesburg where some neighborhoods have experienced over 20 days of dry taps.

International Concerns and Solidarity

The president extended his concerns beyond South Africa’s borders, criticizing “powerful nations” that exert dominance over less powerful states. He asserted that South Africans cannot consider themselves truly free while others around the world face occupation, oppression, and war, specifically mentioning Palestine, Cuba, Sudan, and Western Sahara.

Coalition Government and Economic Outlook

Ramaphosa, who assumed office in 2018, currently leads a coalition government formed after the African National Congress (ANC) lost its parliamentary majority for the first time in 30 years. This coalition, including the pro-business Democratic Alliance, has helped restore confidence in Africa’s largest economy. However, persistent unemployment remains a challenge, and the government faces pressure to improve service delivery.