Egypt Marks 53rd Anniversary of October Victory and Armed Forces Day in Pretoria
by Anisha Pemjee
12 November 2026
The 53rd anniversary of Egypt’s October Victory and Armed Forces Day was commemorated in Pretoria on 21 October 2026, bringing together members of the diplomatic corps, military representatives and distinguished guests to honour a defining moment in Egypt’s history and reaffirm the longstanding relations between Egypt and South Africa.
The occasion marked the anniversary of 6 October 1973, when Egyptian Armed Forces crossed the Suez Canal in a military operation that became a defining moment in the country’s history, symbolising its determination to reclaim its land, sovereignty and national dignity.
Addressing guests, Defence Attaché of the Egyptian Armed Forces, Colonel Sherif Shoukry, described the victory as an enduring testament to the resilience of the Egyptian people and the capabilities of its military.
“This victory embodied Egypt’s will, affirmed the steadfastness of its people, and demonstrated the Armed Forces’ ability to achieve their objectives and safeguard the nation’s sovereignty,” he said.
Colonel Shoukry paid tribute to the soldiers who fought to restore Egypt’s land and dignity, as well as those who made the ultimate sacrifice. He also recalled the leadership of the late President Anwar Sadat, whose decision to go to war and cross the Suez Canal was driven by faith in the Egyptian people and the Armed Forces.
He emphasised that Egypt, despite having fought to reclaim its territory, remained committed to peace and international cooperation. “Egypt, that has fought to reclaim its land, is the same Egypt that consistently strives for peace,” he said, highlighting the importance of mutual understanding, respect for sovereignty and non-interference in the internal affairs of states.
Delivering the address on behalf of South Africa, Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), General Rudzani Maphwanya, conveyed messages of goodwill to the Egyptian government, Armed Forces and people.
He reflected on the significance of the October 1973 victory, noting that it represented more than a military achievement. “The 6th of October 1973 was not simply about war. It was about sovereignty, national dignity and self-determination,” he said.
General Maphwanya also recalled Egypt’s historic support for South Africa’s liberation struggle, particularly Cairo’s role as a centre of political and institutional support for African freedom fighters. He highlighted Nelson Mandela’s visit to Cairo in February 1962 to seek assistance and training for the liberation movement, and his return in February 1990, shortly after his release from prison, to express gratitude for Egypt’s solidarity.
The General further acknowledged the South African servicemen who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars and whose graves are maintained in Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemeteries in Egypt. He noted that approximately 2,772 Black, White, Coloured and Indian South Africans are buried and commemorated there.
Turning to contemporary defence relations, General Maphwanya reaffirmed the SANDF’s commitment to strengthening military cooperation with Egypt. He highlighted South African soldiers’ participation in Exercise Bright Star 25, including the multinational parachute freefall and airborne jump over the Great Pyramids of Giza on 6 September 2025.
He also welcomed Egypt’s participation in the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) exhibition in September 2026, following the SANDF delegation’s attendance at the El Alamein International Airshow. The engagements provided opportunities to explore advanced defence technologies and potential industrial partnerships.
“Though our nations sit at opposite ends of Africa, from the Cape to Cairo, we are one,” General Maphwanya said.