Media Statement: Defence Department Changes Tack on 1 Military Hospital, Despite Huge Investment, Raising Committee Concerns

Parliament, Friday, 12 June 2026 - The Joint Standing Committee on Defence has expressed serious dissatisfaction with the change in direction regarding the long-stalled repair and maintenance project (RAMP) at 1 Military Hospital in Tshwane. The committee today met with senior management from the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) to receive an update on the project.

Despite substantial investments made towards the repair and maintenance of the hospital, the committee was informed that the Department of Defence and Military Veterans is reconsidering the viability of continuing with the RAMP and is exploring the possibility of constructing a new hospital instead.

"While we appreciate the rationale behind reassessing the project, it is deeply concerning that more than R1 billion has already been invested in the repair and maintenance programme without the work ever being completed," said the Co-Chairperson of the committee, Mr Phiroane Phala.

The committee further expressed concern about the apparent lack of coordination between the Department of Defence and Military Veterans and the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. Members noted a troubling disconnect between the two departments, characterised by poor information sharing and inadequate alignment on project objectives and implementation plans.

"The committee finds it inexplicable that two government departments entrusted with such a critical project can operate without sufficient alignment and information sharing. This lack of alignment has contributed significantly to the current challenges," Mr Phala said.

The committee also raised its frustration over the continued absence of consequence management against officials implicated in wrongdoing identified through a forensic investigation commissioned by the department.

"It is unacceptable that consequence management has not been implemented. In a statement issued in May 2025, the committee highlighted this concern, and more than a year later no tangible action has been taken. This failure only reinforces concerns that the department is not serious about ensuring accountability," Mr Phala emphasised.

Notwithstanding these concerns, the committee urged both departments to urgently engage on the way forward to ensure the provision of a functional facility capable of delivering quality healthcare services to serving and retired members of the SANDF. Such engagements should address the viability of completing the RAMP, the feasibility of constructing a new hospital, the future use of the existing facility, and the funding requirements associated with any proposed development.

The committee will subsequently facilitate a joint engagement where both departments are expected to table a consolidated report for consideration. In addition, the committee has requested a progress report on disciplinary and accountability measures against officials identified in the forensic investigation.

Meanwhile, the committee extended its heartfelt condolences to the Ntshingila family, friends and colleagues following the passing of committee member Mr Edward Mzikayise Ntshingila. "The committee is poorer for the loss of Mr Ntshingila. We extend our deepest sympathies and wish the family strength and comfort during this difficult period," concluded Mr Phala.

ISSUED BY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CO-CHAIRPERSON OF THE JOINT STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE, MR PHIROANE PHALA.

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