Parliament, Friday, 13 March 2026- The Joint Standing Committee on Defence has raised concerns about the absence of a direct line of communication between government and the defence industry, and it warned that this gap undermines the sector's potential to play a critical role in growing South Africa's economy.

The committee today met with the Chairperson of the National Conventional Arms Control Committee (NCACC), Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, to discuss matters relating to the regulation and strategic positioning of the defence industry.

It emphasised that the defence industry must strengthen collaboration between the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), and the Department of Defence (DoD) to develop strategies that can fully unlock the industry's economic potential.

"It is important that there is a clear line of communication to clear impediments in the defence industry. The DTIC and the DoD are central in providing the policy direction required for the industry to grow. The argument by the NCACC that the committee must remain insulated from the influence of applicants is both cogent and correct," said Mr Phiroane Phala, Co-Chairperson of the committee.

The committee noted that the defence industry has a strategic and socio-economic role to play in South Africa. It contributes to skills development as well as research and development that are essential to ensuring that South Africa remains competitive on the global stage. The industry also has significant potential to contribute to broader economic growth and job creation.

"It is in this context that a platform must be created to facilitate effective communication and coordination so that the industry can be rebuilt through collective action and clear policy direction," Mr Phala emphasised.

The committee further acknowledged the explanation provided by the NCACC and welcomed initiatives to ensure that the committee meets regularly to process industry applications in line with the National Conventional Arms Control Act. Members of the committee welcomed the resolution that the NCACC will meet monthly to ensure the speedy processing of applications.

Meanwhile, the committee also welcomed a detailed briefing from the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) on allowances paid to members deployed under Operation Thiba. The committee highlighted that the morale of deployed soldiers is critical and that clarity regarding the payment of authorised allowances was necessary.

The committee was informed that, contrary to media reports, the department has fully paid all allowances due to members deployed under the operation. The SANDF indicated that it is prepared to conduct further verification should any service members believe that they have not received their payments.

The committee also considered a letter from the President of the Republic, dated 5 March 2026, informing Parliament about the deployment of 550 SANDF members in support of the South African Police Service to combat crime and preserve law and order in Gauteng under Operation Prosper for the period 30 January 2026 to 30 April 2026.

After considering the letter, the committee noted with concern that the deployment letter was dated 5 March 2026, while the deployment commenced on 31 January 2026. Members further raised a concern that while the deployment letter limited the operation to Gauteng, the presentation to the committee included references to deployments in the Free State and North West provinces.

The committee will recommend to both Houses of Parliament that they note the deployment. It will also request the Minister to provide further clarity on the areas of deployment, given the discrepancy between the letter of deployment and the presentation made to the committee.

ISSUED BY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CO-CHAIRPERSONS OF THE JOINT STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE, MR PHIROANE PHALA AND DR MALUSI GIGABA.

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