Makhanda, South Africa — Plans to erect a perimeter fence at a military training area in the Eastern Cape, site of fatal incidents involving unexploded ordnance, have stalled due to inadequate funding. The area, belonging to the 6 SA Infantry Battalion, has faced ongoing challenges from encroaching squatters, prompting concerns at both parliamentary and military levels.
The issue gained renewed attention following the death of a scrap metal collector in September, killed by an explosion while trespassing in the restricted military zone. This incident has prompted demands for urgent action from lawmakers across the political spectrum. Chris Hattingh, a Democratic Alliance Member of Parliament, emphasized that the SANDF’s chronic underfunding can no longer serve as an excuse for the lack of safety measures at Makhanda.
In May, Rear Admiral David Mkhonto, Logistics Chief at the Department of Defence, described the encroachment of informal settlements as a “significant issue” with critical implications for national security and the safety of both military and civilian lives. The perennial problem of missing or damaged fencing around the 7,000-hectare area allows unauthorized individuals to access a site where live ammunition is routinely used.
Hattingh recalled the history of civilian casualties stemming from the military training ground. Incidents dating back to 1998 have involved minors suffering life-altering injuries or fatalities after encountering leftover military explosives. Notably, three people, including a young boy, lost their lives in 2005 when a mortar exploded nearby. Despite these tragic events, progress toward improved safety has been painfully slow.
Military accountability has also been a topic of discussion, as Major General Lawrence Mbatha currently oversees 6 SAI. Hattingh pointed out that leadership has long been aware of the fencing issues, yet the necessary actions to secure the area remain unfulfilled. “Months after the latest fatal incident, the Department has yet to launch any repair efforts or safety assessments,” Hattingh stated.
The Democratic Alliance plans to advocate for a comprehensive intervention in Parliament to ensure that military installations are properly secured. Their proposals include constructing reliable perimeter fences, clearing unexploded ordnance, and investigating why repairs have been repeatedly delayed. The DA aims to foster safer communities around military bases by involving local residents in safety initiatives.
On the opposing side, Economic Freedom Fighters representative Carl Niehaus raised concerns about the missing fence during a parliamentary session. He was informed that while a project for the fence was initiated, it has languished due to financial constraints. The Department of Defence reiterated its commitment to address the issue, but acknowledged that viable solutions remain elusive without sufficient funding.
The ongoing discussions highlight the intersecting challenges of military preparedness and community safety in South Africa, where the consequences of neglecting infrastructure directly impact civilian lives. As pressure mounts for legislative intervention, the future of both the military’s operational effectiveness and the safety of surrounding communities hangs in the balance.