Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma says no country can function properly without an effective intelligence service in place.
"It is an important time for us to remember those who are the ears and eyes of our country because no country can live without intelligence services," Zuma said at the Intelligence Services Day commemoration held at the State Security Agency's Musanda headquarters in Pretoria on Tuesday.
Zuma said the day served as both an "inspiration and remembrance" in honour of those who have served South Africa's intelligence service.
The remembrance is held annually to honour members of the intelligence security services who have passed away. Families of the deceased are invited to witness a wreath laying ceremony and tree planting by the President and State Security Minister at the Garden of Remembrance.
"It is an important occasion for us as we remember of comrades and colleagues who have served the country well as both our ears and eyes," said Zuma.
There was no country that could underestimate the important work done by intelligence in its effective functioning. Government would continue to pay tribute to those who served in this important structure.
