AbaQulusi Local Municipality Mayor Sifiso Mkhwanazi has honoured emergency services officials for their dedication and the important services they provide to residents.

An awards ceremony took place on Friday at Cecil Emmett Hall to recognise officials from various sectors, including Public Safety, Ambulance Services, the South African Police Service (SAPS), security and towing companies, Immigration and the Traffic Department, among others.

The event programme director was Alex Mthiyane from Gagasi FM, who welcomed the guests and introduced the programme.

Recognising those who serve the community

The municipality’s Community Services director, TS Mthembu, shared the purpose of the gathering, while Municipal Manager Sbonga Dlamini delivered a message of encouragement.

Dlamini thanked the officials for their commitment to serving the community, even in difficult and dangerous circumstances.

“Today, we are here to celebrate and thank the people who run towards danger while everyone else is running away.

“These are our brothers and sisters, but when they wear their uniforms, we sometimes tend to disrespect them, forgetting that they are simply doing their jobs.

“As much as we are here to celebrate you, we also want to apologise for our attitudes towards you and for ridiculing you while you are on duty.

“We want you to know that we recognise your sleepless nights, missed family gatherings and all the contributions you make to the community.”

Mayor acknowledges their sacrifices

The mayor also delivered the keynote address, acknowledging the challenges faced by emergency services personnel and the importance of their work.

“As emergency services workers, we want to say that your work matters.

“We know you face criticism, work long hours and witness traumatic scenes, yet you continue to put on your uniforms and serve.”

Mkhwanazi also paid tribute to members who had lost their lives while on duty and extended his condolences to their families.

He further acknowledged the families of emergency services personnel for supporting their loved ones as they carry out their duties, often without knowing whether they will return home safely.

The mayor expressed his appreciation to all the officials for their dedication, hard work and contribution to society, particularly for their role in saving lives and assisting residents at all hours.

Officials receive awards for their service

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of awards, as officials were recognised and celebrated for their service and commitment to the community.

A truly successful event that honoured unsung heroes.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.