Mapaballo Borotho

The Department of Military Veterans has confirmed the death of South African freedom fighter, Lieutenant General Gilbert Lebeko Ramano.
Ramano passed away on Sunday, 8 June 2025 at the age of 85 at 1 Military Hospital in Pretoria.
He is the former chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), senior uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) commander, and a freedom fighter.
Spokesperson for the Department of Military Veterans, Mxolisi Mkhonza says Ramano leaves behind a legacy of service, discipline, and dedication to the struggle for a democratic South Africa.
“Before 1994, General Ramano was a leading figure in the armed liberation movement, having left South Africa in the 1960s to join MK in exile. He received advanced military training in Tanzania, Egypt, and the Soviet Union, emerging as a respected strategist and mentor to many young cadres across ANC military camps.
“His deep commitment to justice and principled leadership helped shape the foundation for South Africa’s post-apartheid defence ethos,” said Mkhonza.
Ramano played a pivotal role in unifying the former liberation armies into the formation of the new SA National Defence Force in 1994.
“His passing is a profound loss to the military veteran community and to the nation. We extend heartfelt condolences to the Ramano family and to all who served alongside him. May his revolutionary spirit continue to guide future generations,” Mkhonza added.
Details regarding the official memorial and funeral service will be announced in due course.
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