MBOMBELA – Ngomane was born in Nkomazi and was based in Mbombela for the past few years. A farewell event was held at the Nelspruit Rugby Club on Thursday February 24 to honour him.

During his farewell, various people made speeches about their time working with him, and said they will always remember his work ethics and his love of coffee. In his speech of appreciation, he thanked everyone that supported him in his journey and said he would have not made it without their constant support.

ALSO READ: Trial of former Mpumalanga MEC Mandla Msibi transferred to Mpumalanga High Court

Ngomane said his secretary, Emmah Matsemela, was one of the people who kept the ship floating by making sure everything was in order all the time. “She knew that I needed coffee every four hours and she would make sure that when I was having it, there were no meetings scheduled at that time.” With the farming skills he had acquired in the military, Ngomane said he is going to venture into his own farming projects, which will help him keep busy.

“Today is not my last day of serving; I am becoming my new self for the new dawn. I thank the organisation for empowering me so much that when I look to my new future, I can confirm that I am taking my retirement with great pride, venturing into farming.

“I am grateful to all the community leaders of Mpumalanga, members of SAPS and the surrounding area for the support they gave me.” He added that he was delighted to be retiring in the Province of the Rising Sun. One of the speakers, Thomas Ngomane, said, “As I see him retiring, I cannot help but remember our times together. He inspired me to join the correctional service and to get to where I am.” When the formalities were done, the members and guests enjoyed a meal together.