Kempton Park SAPS honours officer after 35 years of service

Kempton Park SAPS bid farewell to Rachel Morwatshetla on July 10, honouring her 35 years of dedicated service and commitment to the station.

The farewell function was held under the leadership of acting Station Commander Colonel Motsatsi Lesomo, with colleagues, commanders and family members gathering to celebrate Morwatshetla’s long-standing contribution to the SAPS.

The programme was facilitated by Warrant Officer Ngoepe, while Sergeant Tendani Mashabela opened the event with a prayer. Lieutenant Colonel Hlolani delivered the welcoming address.

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Lesomo thanked Morwatshetla for her dedication and for empowering those who remain behind to continue serving with excellence.

“It was not easy, but you made it. Not many people reach the milestone that you have reached. There are hardships at work, but you kept running your race and finished it with excellence.

“We hope that the baton you have been carrying has now been handed over. It is not goodbye – it is time for you to go and rest,” said Lesomo.

According to Kempton Park SAPS media liaison Sergeant Dipuo Ditshego, Morwatshetla began her SAPS career in 1991 at the Kempton Park Mess.

During her career, she served in various sections, including the Docket Store, Serving Summons, Kempton Park Court, the PDP Office and the Accident Office before taking early retirement.

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Reflecting on her journey, Morwatshetla thanked everyone who supported her throughout her years of service under different leadership.

She acknowledged that the journey was not always easy but said her love for her work kept her going.

She encouraged those continuing their careers in SAPS to respect their leaders and remain committed.

Her immediate commander, Captain Gudu, also expressed appreciation for Morwatshetla’s dedication and professionalism.

“In the short period that I worked with you, you showed me respect and commitment. Now it is time for you to rest. We are very proud of your work,” said Gudu.

Morwatshetla received gifts in appreciation of her years of service. Her family also thanked Kempton Park SAPS for caring for their loved one, saying that her dedication often meant spending most of her time at work, with family time limited to weekends and leave periods.

Sergeant Senyolo shared words of appreciation, while Sergeant Ntombifuthi Abrokwa closed the programme with a prayer.

Colleagues wished Morwatshetla well as she begins the next chapter of her life after more than three decades of service.