Barberton Home Affairs has impressed me time and time again. Normally, we are quick to dish out complaints and tardy when compliments are due. That is something that us South Africans – and people all over the world – should work on.
My first visit to Barberton’s home affairs offices was on July 7. I applied for a passport and two unabridged certificates. The personnel informed me in detail about each step the process entailed and the waiting time for application approvals.
I was ill on that day and had to step outside once I reached the counter. The friendly assistant continued to serve others while waiting for me to come back. When I did, we resumed my application immediately. I felt so ill that I had to step outside twice more and every time, I was assisted by smiling faces upon my return.
They even gave me the opportunity to fetch some water during the process. On Wednesday, I made a follow-up call and Doris Chiloane and team did their part to assist me quickly. Come to think of it – the phone rang, was picked up and I had my answer within two minutes. I will have to apply for two additional documents there soon. For the first time in my life, the task of going to home affairs is not something I dread.
Thank you to everyone at Barberton Home Affairs. You are the example of how a state institution should function.
