The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Khehla John Sitole, officially handed over the Sword-of-Command to the first female Provincial Commissioner in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela, this morning.

General Sitole bestowed the Sword-of- Command at a medal parade at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.  The medal parade is held to honor and appreciate long serving members throughout the province who have served the organisation with distinction.

The handing over of the Sword-of-Command, is an honour bestowed upon a newly appointed Provincial Commissioner and symbolises a change in command.  Lieutenant General Manamela assumed office on 01 July 2021 taking over the reigns from former Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Mondli Zuma whose five year term came to an end in March this year.

On parade were thirty members who received their 30-year Loyal Service Medals. This medal is awarded to members of the South African Police Service, who have served for a period of thirty years and who have also displayed an irreproachable character and exemplary conduct.

The Premier of Mpumalanga, Mrs Refilwe Mtsweni Tsipane lauded the recently appointed Commissioner and wished her well for the task at hand.

“Having dedicated more than two decades of her life serving and protecting the people of South Africa, I am confident that Lieutenant General Manamela has all capabilities to lead and serve the people of Mpumalanga. I wish to pledge my support to you and implore on you to take back the streets from our criminals and always remember to carry your responsibility with pride”.

Among the dignitaries present at the parade was the MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison in the province, Mr Vusi Shongwe, the President of Contralesa Kgoshi Mathupa Mokoena , the Chairperson of the House of Traditional Leaders, Inkosi Ngomane ,Senior leadership of the SAPS,  the Community Policing Forum Board Chairperson in the province, Mr Kevin Pillay as well as representatives from organized labour who all pledged their support in working together with the recently appointed Provincial Commissioner.

Source: South African Police Service