MAHIKENG MAIL – MAHIKENG - Department of Correctional Services under the auspices of Rooigrond Management Area, staged what was described as the “mother of all events” last week at the Mmabatho Convention Centre in Mahikeng.
The magnificent function was organised to dedicate and celebrate women in uniform for their role in exhibiting bravery in the line of duty and for playing a pivotal role in safeguarding of offenders under their care. The gesture was also to appreciate and acknowledge Rooigrond female officials for contributing immensely in their different households, society and work spaces. The concept was conceived by the Area Commissioner of Rooigrond Management Area, Nduduzo Buthelezi, after his inception.
It has since been his vision to honour women of Rooigrond during Women’s Month. Buthelezi has been dubbed as a trendsetter within the circles of Rooigrond for being able to initiate a number of projects with a 100% success rate. Plans and preparations for the much-awaited event commenced early in the year after Buthelezi shared his brilliant idea with the organising committee. The event attracted prominent figures from all walks of life to give tips and hints about critical matters that affect women. They all brought inspiring and encouraging messages intended to instil and provoke their thoughts about pertinent issues intended to compound and rekindle their thinking to renew their approach towards life.
Vibrant speakers who ascended the stage didn’t leave any stone unturned in highlighting important aspects aiming at strengthening and revitalising the nature of women. The day became more colourful with ladies parading their exquisite vintage attires.
Unveiling the purpose of the day Area, Chaplain Mpho Chaane indicated that the event was to demonstrate that men really cared for women and denounced any form of discrimination that might be intended to devalue and despise women. “We must love, care and provide for our women and act against any form of women and child abuse, we must celebrate them every year from now on,” he said. The function was characterised by fun filled activities, and amplified by vibrant musical items, performances, singing and chanting that ignited the atmosphere.
Delivering the keynote address, District Mayor for Ngaka Modiri Molema, Cllr Khumalo Molefe alluded on some of important characteristics that defines women of fortitudes. “You are made from a special material, that has no factory fault. You have nurtured stars that that are making inroads on national and international stages,” indicated Cllr Molefe.
He further lauded women for their indispensable contributions they were playing in shaping society.
Representatives from Popcru, Public Service Association, Public Protector’s Office and the Gender Equality emphasised the impeccable contributions that the women of 1956 had discharged to give birth to a democratic South Africa.
They encouraged women not to drop the ball, but to ensure that they stayed focused on their right and privileges to navigate their total emancipation from all forms of oppression.
In wrapping up the event Regional Commissioner for Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North West, Tlabo Thokolo explained further the mandate of the Department and explained the role that women in uniform were playing in the value chain.
He boasted about his region for abiding to gender representation, saying that currently there were four female Area Commissioners out of eight in the region.
Because the event was twofold, lastly, Thokolo praised men and women who recently resigned after having served the Department of Correctional Services with pride in uninterrupted years of service.
Rendering the vote of thanks, Area Coordinator Corporate services, Janet Herbst unreservedly acknowledge the hard work that male officials had invested for pulling off the memorable event.
She was humbled by their efforts and thanked all men on behalf of female officials.
