19 Feb 2019 | 07:05 PM UTC
South Africa: Disruptions expected for Armed Forces Day through February 21
Armed Forces Day events in Cape Town February 16-21; heavy security presence, travel disruptions expected
Event
Cape Town will host Armed Forces Day on Thursday, February 21, with associated events beginning on Saturday, February 16. A military parade will be held at Sunset Beach in Bloubergstrand from 10:00 to 14:30 (local time) on February 21.
A heightened security presence and associated travel disruptions are expected in the vicinity of any event.
Context
Armed Forces day is hosted on a rotational basis between each South African province. Armed Forces day began under the tenure of former president Jacob Zuma. Many of the demonstrations this year commemorate the sinking of the SS Mendi passenger steamship in 1917.
Advice
Individuals in Cape Town are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate traffic disruptions, including road closures and increased congestion, avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
