03/06/2026
PART 1: Change of Command Parade Marks a Legacy of Service in the South African Army Intelligence Formation.
A bright winter Saturday morning set the tone for a memorable occasion as soldiers, veterans, family members and distinguished guests gathered in Johan du Randt stadium in Potchefstroom for the change of command parade of the South African Army Intelligence Formation.
The parade marked the formal handover of command from outgoing General Officer Commanding Brigadier General F.B. Konjwayo to incoming General Officer Commanding Brigadier General J.M. Motau on 30 May 2026.
The Battalion parade unfolded under clear blue winter skies, creating a fitting backdrop for a day of military tradition and celebration. The Kroonstad Military Band filled the parade ground with stirring music, entertaining guests throughout the occasion, from junior soldiers to senior military leadership. The atmosphere reflected both the significance of the event and the pride of those gathered to witness the historic change of command.
Among the distinguished attendees were the Deputy Chief of the South African Army, Major General M. Dyakopu; former General Officers Commanding of the South African Army Intelligence Formation, Major General R.E. Mercuur (Deputy Chief of Defence Intelligence), and Brigadier General (Retired) E.M. Boihang; members of the Army Council, Army Command Council, Extended Army Command Council, and other senior officials from the services and divisions (Joint Operations and Defence Intelligence). The occasion was further honoured by the presence of international guests, including the King of the Ngoni Tribe in Songea Rumuva, Tanzania, Nkosi Mgendela Gama, and the Prince of the Ngoni Tribe in Songea Rumuva, Tanzania, Prince Markcelin Gama.
The parade was executed with precision and discipline under the command of Lieutenant Colonel W.B. Booysen, the officer commanding of 1 Tactical Intelligence Regiment. The flawless ex*****on of drill movements reflected the professionalism and high standards of the Intelligence Corps, reinforcing the ceremonial importance of the occasion.
The parade also celebrated the distinguished career of Paarl born Brigadier General Konjwayo, whose 43 years of service have left an enduring legacy within the South African military. His military journey began in 1983 when he joined Umkhonto, we Sizwe as a young freedom fighter in exile. He underwent clandestine military training within South Africa before receiving further training in Uganda and Tanzania. Throughout the liberation struggle, he endured significant hardships, including the terrifying crossing of the Zambezi River under challenging and dangerous conditions. During this period, Namibia served as a place of refuge, while Zambia functioned as a key transit point in his journey towards military training and service.
Following the dawn of democracy, Brigadier General Konjwayo continued his service in the South African National Defence Force, rising steadily through the ranks. He commanded the prestigious intelligence units, 1 Tactical Intelligence Regiment and the School of Tactical Intelligence, before assuming command of the SA Army Intelligence Formation in 2023, where his leadership contributed significantly to the development and strengthening of the Intelligence Corps.
Article by || Captain I.S. Leshage and Photographs by || Bombardier R.A. Taje || SA Army Artillery Formation,Lance Corporal K. Kgorinyane, Lance Corporal N. Mbokazi, Scout Z. Madikizela, and Scout J.E.P. Cooper|| SA Army Intelligence Formation.