The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) on July 31 bid a final farewell to its retiring Chief of Staff (CoS) Lieutenant-General Fhurani Michael Ramantswana, with a change of office ceremony held in Centurion to mark the handover of this title to Lieutenant-General Thembelani Xundu.

Ramantswana served as CoS from November 21, 2022, until July 31 this year.

He began his military career in 1987 in the Venda Defence Force at the age of 21 and completed several training and courses.

He was integrated into the SANDF in 1994 at the rank level of Captain. He completed several military courses post this, including sub-unit commander and Battalion Commander’s.

Between 1992 and 1998, while stationed at 15 South African Infantry Battalion, he held different Commands and Staff positions.

In 1999, he completed the All Arms Battle Handling at the SA Army Combat Training Centre.

He was then transferred to the South African Army headquarters in Pretoria as Staff Officer at Chief Army Force Structure in a post of SO2 Force Structure.

Following that, he completed more courses, was promoted in rank, and also completed a degree and honours.

In 2021, he completed the Executive National Security Programme at the South African National Defence College in Pretoria, marking the completion of the highest military developmental programmes in the SANDF.

In November 2021, he was placed as deputy chief of the South African Army at the South African Army headquarters, and also completed a Master’s degree.

In 2022, he was appointed as CoS and promoted to rank of Lieutenant General with effect from November 1.

With nearly 40 years of service, he is decorated with Service Medals, the Unitas Medal, and the Mandela Medal and the Military Merit Medal for devotion to duty.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ramantswana called it a “bittersweet moment”.

He also acknowledged the support of his staff and family over the years.

Ramantswana welcomed Xundu and called on him to ensure that the SANDF stayed ahead of global conflicts and remained a credible force that could defend the country’s people.

Incoming CoS Xundu was part of the military wing of the Azanian People’s Liberation Army (APLA). In 1987 he was sworn in as an internal trained candidate of APLA.

He later received training in Zimbabwe at the country’s Military Academy in Gweru. He served APLA in various capacities.

Owing to his involvement in the armed struggle, Xundu appeared before the TRC and received amnesty during the mid 90s.

He was integrated into the SANDF in 1994, as Major.

He achieved several milestones for the organisation, completed courses, and attained academic qualifications. He is currently a PhD candidate enrolled with Stellenbosch University.

Xundu also boasts several medals.