The South African Army Hospice Breaking of the Soil Ceremony at Lenz Military Base
9 May 2008
 

Address by Minister of Defence, Mister M.G.P. Lekota

The Chief of the South African Army, Lieutenant General Solly Zacharia Shoke, took a decision on 25 May 2005 to establish a hospice in the Central Gauteng area to cater for the needs of soldiers and their families suffering from terminal illnesses. The Surgeon General of the South African Military Health Service enthusiastically supported this initiative.

The South African Military Health Service has only one official hospice in South Africa, which is situated in Pretoria (Thaba Tshwane) and was sponsored by the United States Defence Force. This is totally inadequate for the SA National Defence Force present requirements.

During the South African Army Industry Day in May 2005, members of the Armament Industry and Private Sector as well as individuals confirmed that they would support such a project by providing funds and construction expertise. The South African Army Foundation, a major sponsor, provides the management and accounting of the funds that were generously provided.

During the Department of Defence Strategic Work Session, which was held from 21-23 June 2006, the Minister of Defence, Mr M. Lekota reiterated the decision to establish the Department of Defence Works Regiment. This Works Regiment will be the creation of the Department of Defence own Repair and Maintenance Capability.

Present at this launch of the construction of the SA Army Hospice, are the first members undergoing training at technical colleges and doing their practical training on this construction project under the supervision of Murray and Roberts Construction Company.

ltr: Minister of Defence, Mister M.G.P. Lekota and Chief of the SA Army, Lieutenant General S.Z. Shoke