Army’s R34 million Cuba trip sparks outrage over ‘luxury’ travel

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Why did the Defence Force spend R34 million on a charter flight to Cuba, complete with business class seats, gourmet meals, and soft cushions? That’s what the DA wants to know. Over 200 SANDF members, including senior generals and students, flew to Havana for a graduation that the DA says had “no strategic value”. According to the DA documents show the SANDF may have also helped transport 19 Cubans home and possibly used the military to cover up diplomatic favours. Phemelo speaks to South African National Defence Union Secretary, Pikkie Greeff.
11 Aug 2025 5PM English South Africa Education · Careers

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