The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has a weight problem. Nearly 10% of its 60,000 soldiers are overweight or even obese. That is 6,000 troops who might struggle to run after an enemy, let alone complete a fitness test. Instead of fighting on the battlefield, it seems some are fighting to fit into their uniforms.
So, how did we get here? The love for good food is real. Many soldiers admit they just cannot resist a big meal (who can say no to a braai?). Then there is the issue of cravings, because why do sit-ups when slap chips are calling your name?
The cost of eating healthy is another factor since a salad is somehow pricier than a greasy burger. And let us not forget the all-time favourite excuse: 'I am too busy to exercise.'
The issue of overweight soldiers came into sharp focus last year when pictures of some South African soldiers deployed in the Democratic Republic of Congo to fight against M23 started circulating online. Many questioned whether they would even be able to run when necessary.
The images sparked debates about SANDF's combat readiness and the physical condition of its troops, especially when facing an opponent like M23. Unlike SANDF's troops, M23 fighters are known for being physically fit, battle-hardened, and experienced in guerrilla warfare.
Since South African soldiers have already been deployed in the DRC and have suffered heavy casualties, President Cyril Ramaphosa must make sure they are not sent back as mere ingredients for another tragic recipe. If they are to be there, at least give them the tools to fight, not just prayers and press statements.
The South African Army is not just struggling with overweight soldiers; it is drowning in a sea of problems. Budget constraints have left defence spending at a measly 0.7% of GDP, leading to underfunding in critical areas. Ageing equipment means many military assets are outdated, and financial struggles make maintenance a nightmare. Personnel costs eat up a massive portion of the defence budget, leaving little room for essential operations.
On top of that, skills shortages are affecting operational readiness, while an ageing personnel base means fewer soldiers are physically fit for active duty. The number of medically deployable forces is low, further limiting the army's ability to respond effectively to crises. No wonder their recent mission in Mozambique was a complete failure.
Structural challenges caused by past restructuring efforts have created inefficiencies, and to make matters worse, corruption and mismanagement have drained resources and shattered trust within the military.
Recent casualties in peacekeeping missions in the DRC have only further highlighted these issues, straining international relations and proving that the SANDF is ill-equipped to handle modern conflicts.
It is time for action, not excuses. Mess halls need to serve healthier meals with less grease and more greens. Fitness should be non-negotiable. If you cannot meet basic fitness standards, you should not be in the army.
Leadership is also important. Commanders need to lead by example. If the bosses are fit, the troops will follow. At the end of the day, an army that cannot run, cannot fight. If SANDF wants to stay ready for real battles like the one in DRC, it needs to win the war against weight first. Otherwise, the only thing some soldiers will be chasing is the lunch menu.
Alcade Ndemeye
Source : https://en.igihe.com/opinion/article/south-africa-s-soldiers-are-battling-weight-more-than-war
