ATT: ALL NEWS EDITORS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE:  19 August 2026

South African Military Ombud  Conducting Outreach Programme in the North West and Western Cape

The South African Military Ombud is currently conducting an outreach programme in the North West Province and Western Cape to create awareness about its mandate and services it provides to its stakeholders. The programme will target members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), members of the public more specifically communities living in areas where soldiers are deployed.

The outreach programme will visit Potchefstroom and Mahikeng, as well as mining and high-risk areas where SANDF members are deployed under Operation Prosper, Like Mitchells Plain, Hanover Park News Mall, Bishop Lavis, Shoprite Centre, Delft Taxi Rank, The Junxion Mall, Stilfontein, Abuscheng, Hartbeespoort, Britz, Tlhatlhaganyane, Bapong, and Mogaswe. The programme aims to ensure that both military members and members of the public understand the role of the Military Ombud and know the processes of lodging a complaint.

The Military Ombud is an independent institution established to investigate complaints by members of the public regarding the official conduct of the members of the SANDF when they are on duty. The uniformed members of the SANDF can lodge a complaint regarding their conditions like unfair dismissal.  The outreach programme will provide an opportunity for communities and soldiers to learn more about the complaints process, the type of matters that can be reported, and the information required when lodging a complaint.

Particular attention will be given to communities in mining areas where SANDF members are deployed as part of Operation Prosper. The Office has received a number of cases from the public regarding the use of excessive force by SANDF members in recent years.

SANDF members are also encouraged to use the services of the Office when they have complaints relating to matters cannot be resolved by SANDF through its grievance processes.

Military Ombud Lt Gen (Ret) Vusumuzi Masondo said the outreach programme is intended to strengthen awareness, promote accountability and ensure that people understand their rights when dealing with the SANDF.

“Awareness by Ombud institutions is imperative as many people especially those who face challenges often do not know where to turn for help or recourse,” said Masondo.

To download a complaint form, please visit: www.milombud.org. Once completed forward it via email intake@milombud.org or fax 086 523 2296 respectively..

Issued by the Office of the Military Ombud

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