The dedication and team spirit displayed by the South African Police Service in Limpopo as they go above and beyond their call of duties to serve their community is indeed commendable.
Police donated food parcels and goodies to highlight strong commitment in poverty alleviation to needy children during an event hosted on Tuesday, 24 December 2024 in Mahwelereng.
The event was graced by the Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, accompanied by Brigadier Sigage, the Station Commander of Mahwelereng SAPS Colonel Samuel Sekgota and community leaders comprising the Ward Councillor Brynir Ngwenya,, Ms Baba Selomo, Pastor Motlatso Selomo, Chaplain Peter Letswalo and Neighbourhood Watch David Khotla who rendered messages of support.
The event commenced with a powerful tone emphasizing the heartfelt dedication and holistic approach by the SAPS leadership. The prayer by Pastor Motlatso Selomo and the reading from John 3:16 established a foundation of compassion and selflessness that resonated with the spirit of giving and community support.
Colonel Samuel Sekgota acknowledged the Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe’s multifaceted commitment to both crime prevention and addressing social issues to highlight the deep empathy and proactive stance in the leadership.
By coordinating events like these, they are not only combating crime but also fostering a supportive and united community. “The Provincial Commissioner is a woman with a very big heart, who is not only concerned about the issues of crime in the province but also social-related issues” said Colonel Samuel Sekgota.
Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe’s actions are indeed a shining example of leadership with heart. Her commitment to the community and acts of generosity go far beyond the call of duty. It is clear that her compassion and dedication have made a profound difference in many lives.
Her donation of a wheelchair to a child last year is a testament to her understanding of the challenges faced by those in need and her willingness to make a positive impact. Such acts of kindness not only provide immediate assistance but also inspire hope and uplift the spirits of those who receive them. The Provincial Commissioner’s continued support for children in need highlights her ongoing dedication to making a lasting difference in the community.
Leaders like her play a crucial role in building a more compassionate and caring society. Their efforts remind us all of the importance of giving back and the powerful impact that kindness and support can have on individuals and the broader community. It’s through such genuine care and proactive efforts that trust, and unity are fostered within the community. “When we raise a child, we raise a nation” said Hadebe.
These initiatives are a collective effort, involving not just Commissioner Thembi Hadebe but also community leaders, the Women’s Network, Men for Change, CPF and generous sponsors. This collaborative approach demonstrates the power of unity and how working together can create significant positive change. “Social responsibility is something we undertake quite often. Our young police officers, both men and women, embark on many social responsibility programs in all the corners, and my role is to support them”. Said General Hadebe.
Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe said that “Children must be given responsibilities to prevent them from engaging in drug use and criminal activities. We want them to grow up as law-abiding, disciplined individuals who do not fear the police and can report crimes when they witness it. As the SAPS, we are very overprotective of our children.”
The Kiddies Christmas Joy event, founded in 2021, truly embodies the spirit of community and generosity. It is wonderful to see such a dedicated effort to bring joy and festive cheer to the children. With around 100 children expected to participate on 25 December 2024, the main event is sure to be a memorable day for everyone involved.
The celebration will kick off with a lively parade from Shell Garage to Mahwelereng Stadium, setting a joyous tone for the day. The inclusion of a feast and music ensures that the children will have a fantastic time, creating lasting memories and fostering a sense of togetherness.
Initiatives like these highlight the importance of community support and the positive impact it can have on individuals, especially the younger generation. It is heart warming to see how collective efforts can bring about such wonderful experiences for the children.
“Christmas is for the children,” said Ms Baba Selomo
The event concluded beautifully with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Councillor Brynir Ngwenya of Mahwelereng, who expressed the community’s deep gratitude for everyone’s efforts. The joyful and unifying moment of singing with the children “We Are Marching in the Light of God,” led by Chaplain Peter Letswalo, truly encapsulated the spirit of the day.
Such events highlight the power of solidarity and the profound impact of coming together to support and uplift one another. It’s heartening to see how these initiatives not only address immediate needs but also create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds within the community.
Provincial Commissioner Thembi Hadebe wished everyone a safe joyous festive season and a Merry Christmas.
