The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has expanded its humanitarian mission, continuing to support flood-stricken communities in Limpopo and Mpumalanga while extending assistance to Mozambique. For the past two weeks, SANDF teams have been evacuating residents stranded by rising waters in South Africa. On Sunday, 18 January 2026, the SANDF deployed a search and rescue team, including an Oryx helicopter from the South African Air Force, to Mozambique following severe weather. The aircraft and advance team landed safely in Maputo and immediately began working with Mozambican disaster management agencies and international emergency teams.
This deployment forms part of Operation CHARIOT, a regional initiative aimed at strengthening disaster response partnerships. More air assets and personnel are scheduled to be deployed from South Africa to Mozambique in the coming days. The SANDF’s involvement highlights South Africa’s commitment to saving lives both at home and across the Southern African Development Community.
While floods have caused devastation in both countries, the SANDF’s swift response offers hope. Soldiers, pilots, and rescue specialists are working side by side with local agencies to evacuate stranded families, deliver aid, and restore safety. This mission is more than a rescue effort—it is a reminder that in times of crisis, humanity knows no borders.
