IN CONVERSATION WITH MXOLISI MKHONZA (Acting Head of Communication for the Department of Military Veterans)
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The Amalgamated Veterans of South Africa (AVSA) has escalated its campaign against the Department of Military Veterans (DMV), following prolonged pension delays and systemic administrative issues that have plagued the military veterans' support system.
According to AVSA, more than 87,000 military veterans are still waiting for financial assistance—despite the introduction of the Military Veterans Pension in November 2023. The organisation further claims that at least 20,000 veterans have died while waiting for support from the state.
A formal legal challenge is being prepared, with AVSA stating its intention to take the matter to the Constitutional Court, arguing that the state has failed in its constitutional obligation to care for those who served the country.
“We are now mobilising internationally. We are producing podcasts, writing books, and preparing a global media campaign,” said AVSA president Tsepe Motumi.
While the DMV has stated that over 4,378 veterans have been paid, it has also admitted to budget constraints and an ongoing review of regulations which has halted further roll-out of pensions. The Department claims it is working with the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA) to verify applications.
However, AVSA and other veterans' groups argue the real issue lies in administrative failure—not just finances. A national database of veterans has remained under verification since 2011, with provinces like the Free State and North West only recently receiving attention.
Adding to the frustration is the claim that GPAA is deducting SASSA grants from some pension recipients—effectively nullifying the impact of the new benefit.
Meanwhile, Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans has warned that the state’s continued failure to support veterans could lead to social instability or even mercenary activity.
In Pietermaritzburg, a group of veterans recently occupied government flats to demand housing support—further highlighting the growing tension between ex-combatants and the state.
Despite multiple interventions over the years, including a Presidential Task Team on Military Veterans, the system remains mired in delays, poor communication, and credibility issues.
For now, AVSA says its legal battle will proceed—accompanied by a public pressure campaign to expose what it calls a “historic betrayal” of the country’s former soldiers.
According to AVSA, more than 87,000 military veterans are still waiting for financial assistance—despite the introduction of the Military Veterans Pension in November 2023. The organisation further claims that at least 20,000 veterans have died while waiting for support from the state.
A formal legal challenge is being prepared, with AVSA stating its intention to take the matter to the Constitutional Court, arguing that the state has failed in its constitutional obligation to care for those who served the country.
“We are now mobilising internationally. We are producing podcasts, writing books, and preparing a global media campaign,” said AVSA president Tsepe Motumi.
While the DMV has stated that over 4,378 veterans have been paid, it has also admitted to budget constraints and an ongoing review of regulations which has halted further roll-out of pensions. The Department claims it is working with the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA) to verify applications.
However, AVSA and other veterans' groups argue the real issue lies in administrative failure—not just finances. A national database of veterans has remained under verification since 2011, with provinces like the Free State and North West only recently receiving attention.
Adding to the frustration is the claim that GPAA is deducting SASSA grants from some pension recipients—effectively nullifying the impact of the new benefit.
Meanwhile, Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans has warned that the state’s continued failure to support veterans could lead to social instability or even mercenary activity.
In Pietermaritzburg, a group of veterans recently occupied government flats to demand housing support—further highlighting the growing tension between ex-combatants and the state.
Despite multiple interventions over the years, including a Presidential Task Team on Military Veterans, the system remains mired in delays, poor communication, and credibility issues.
For now, AVSA says its legal battle will proceed—accompanied by a public pressure campaign to expose what it calls a “historic betrayal” of the country’s former soldiers.
