Bethal Correctional Services bids farewell to Area Commissioner
After nearly four decades of dedicated service, Abel Mashaba is now retired.
Bethal Management Area honoured area commissioner Abel Mashaba during a farewell function recently held at Graceland Hotel, Casino and Country Club in Secunda, marking the end of an almost 39-year career with the Department of Correctional Services (DCS).
Mashaba joined the department in 1987 at Barberton Correctional Centre and served in various positions before retiring on June 30.
The event was attended by Chief Phangweni Mahlangu of AmaNdebele, acting deputy regional commissioner for Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North West, Nhlelela Sono, current and former colleagues from the region, and other stakeholders.
Speakers praised Mashaba’s leadership and contributions to the department’s administration and operations.
In his keynote address, Sono said Mashaba’s retirement leaves “big shoes to fill”, describing him as a respected leader recognised at both the regional and national level.
He highlighted Mashaba’s appointment by national commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale to help stabilise Pollsmoor Remand Detention Facility in the Western Cape shortly before his retirement, while continuing to fulfil his responsibilities in the Bethal Management Area.
“When you took over Bethal Management Area, it was far from attaining 100% in the annual performance programme.
“However, under your leadership in the 2025/26 financial year, Bethal Management Area achieved 100% in the APP,” said Sono.
“You have been a successful leader and made your mark in the department. Your departure is a loss to the LMN Regional Team because we are losing a dedicated employee, a fearless leader and a versatile all-rounder,” said Sono.
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Officials of the Bethal Management Area gathered once again on June 30 to bid Mashaba farewell on the day of his retirement, which also coincided with his 60th birthday.
The occasion included a guard of honour, drill displays by members of the Emergency Support Team (EST) and SAPS officials, and a rendition of Happy Birthday by colleagues.
The celebration took place shortly after Mashaba attended his final Regional Management Committee (Regmanco) virtual meeting, during which Regional Commissioner Tlabo Thokolo, acting DRC Sono and committee members wished him well.
In his farewell address, Mashaba thanked the department’s leadership for the opportunity to serve and encouraged officials to continue working together in unity.
He also urged colleagues to further their education, saying that learning is essential for personal development and future success.
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