Premier Dr Ramathuba celebrates SAPS excellence in Limpopo

Speaking at the SAPS Provincial Excellence Awards held at The Ranch Resort on 10 October 2025, Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba highlighted the crucial role of the South African Police Service in ensuring safety and security across Limpopo. The event served not only to celebrate outstanding police work but also to reflect on ongoing efforts to reform and improve law enforcement. The Premier emphasised the provincial government’s strong partnership with SAPS to combat crime and tackle critical issues such as gender-based violence, urging continued dedication, accountability, and community trust to build a safer future for all citizens of the province.

Key details from the awards event

• Event: SAPS Provincial Excellence Awards
• Date: 10 October 2025
• Venue: The Ranch Resort
• Speaker: Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, Premier of Limpopo Province
• Key individuals and positions present or acknowledged:
  • Programme Directors: Warrant Officer TG Shai and Mr K Motau
  • National Police Commissioner: General Fannie Masemola
  • MEC for Transport and Community Safety: Ms Violet Mathye
  • MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture: Mr Jerry Maseko
  • Provincial Commissioner: Lt General Thembi Radebe
  • Executive Mayor of Capricorn District Municipality: Cllr Mamedupi Teffo
  • Mayor of Mogalakwena Local Municipality: Cllr Ngoako Thulani Taueatsoala
  • Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Transport and Community Safety: Ms K Lebea
  • Members of the South African Police Services
  • Members of the Media
• Institutions/Organisations involved: South African Police Service (SAPS), Limpopo Provincial Government.
• Key initiatives mentioned: Campaigns to combat crime, specific initiatives in Thohoyandou addressing gender-based violence and femicide.
• Noteworthy commendation: For the successful conviction of a perpetrator in the case involving a 101-year-old victim, highlighting the diligence of an unnamed Constable.

A message of dedication and a call for a safer Limpopo

The SAPS Provincial Excellence Awards are a significant event, bringing together various stakeholders to acknowledge the hard work and commitment of the men and women in the South African Police Service. Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba expressed her honour in addressing the gathering, stressing that the awards are more than just a celebration; they are a vital moment for reflection on the progress achieved and the challenges that still need to be overcome.

During these demanding times, public attention is often focused on the police service, with headlines frequently highlighting the urgent need for reform. The Premier echoed the public’s desire for an agile, effective, accountable, and irreproachable police service. She reminded the officers that the responsibility for ensuring community safety and security rests heavily on their shoulders.

Drawing inspiration from Ben Okri’s poem “African Elegy,” Dr. Ramathuba connected the themes of suffering and resilience to the journey of the SAPS. She acknowledged that police work is often filled with adversity – dealing with crime, violence, and despair. However, within these struggles, officers show a remarkable ability to find joy, hope, and dignity in their service, proving that their sacrifices are meaningful and contribute to enriching communities.

The provincial government deeply values its strong partnership with SAPS in Limpopo. Together, they have launched numerous campaigns aimed at combating crime and safeguarding communities. Recent initiatives, particularly in Thohoyandou, have specifically targeted the critical issues of gender-based violence and femicide. The Premier stated unequivocally that they cannot remain idle while these societal problems persist, reaffirming their moral commitment to uplifting women and children. For more information on the province’s initiatives, you can visit the official Limpopo Provincial Government website.

The Premier also took a moment to commend the exceptional dedication of individual officers. She highlighted a particular case where the successful conviction of a perpetrator in a heartbreaking incident involving a 101-year-old victim demonstrated unwavering commitment. She specifically praised the diligence of an unnamed Constable, seeing it as an embodiment of justice and integrity in police work.

As awards were handed out, Dr. Ramathuba offered her heartfelt congratulations to the recipients, recognising that each award signifies hard work, collaboration, and a relentless commitment to keeping Limpopo safe. She also acknowledged the collective effort that underpins these achievements, emphasising that the province remains at the forefront of effective policing due to dedication, resilience, and teamwork.

Benefits to the community and how to participate

The initiatives discussed, such as crime prevention campaigns and targeted actions against gender-based violence, aim to create a truly safe environment for everyone in Limpopo. By fostering excellence, accountability, and compassion within SAPS, these efforts seek to rebuild public trust and promote a culture of safety, dignity, and respect. The ultimate benefit is a stronger, safer society where citizens can live without fear.

Community participation is vital for these efforts to succeed. While specific participation methods were not detailed in the speech, communities are encouraged to support the police by reporting criminal activities, participating in local community policing forums, and engaging in neighbourhood watch programmes. By working together with law enforcement, citizens can play an active role in preventing crime and fostering a secure environment. The Premier’s call to “rise to the challenge” includes active community involvement in making Limpopo a brighter and safer place for all.

Frequently asked questions

1. What are the SAPS Provincial Excellence Awards?

   These awards are an annual event in Limpopo Province to celebrate outstanding achievements and dedicated service by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS).

2. Who organised this event?

   The event was hosted by the provincial government of Limpopo in partnership with the SAPS, with Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, the Premier, delivering the keynote speech.

3. What is the main goal of the awards, according to the Premier?

   The main goal is to celebrate excellence, reflect on the progress made, acknowledge ongoing challenges in law enforcement, and motivate officers to continue their dedication to public safety and reform.

4. What challenges does the Premier acknowledge regarding the police service?

   The Premier acknowledges public focus on the police service during “trying times” and the urgency to reform and refine law enforcement to be agile, effective, accountable, and above reproach.

5. How is the provincial government working with SAPS to address crime?

   The provincial government has forged a strong partnership with SAPS in Limpopo, launching campaigns to combat crime and ensure community safety, including specific initiatives targeting gender-based violence and femicide.

6. What specific initiatives were highlighted in the speech?

   The speech highlighted recent initiatives, especially in Thohoyandou, that address the critical issues of gender-based violence and femicide.

7. How can the community help make Limpopo safer?

   While not explicitly detailed in the speech, the Premier’s message implies that community participation is crucial. This typically includes reporting crimes, cooperating with police, and engaging in community safety programmes like neighbourhood watches.

8. What are the expected benefits of these combined efforts for the community?

   The efforts aim to create safer communities, uplift women and children, ensure justice for victims, rebuild trust in the police, and foster a general culture of safety, dignity, and respect for a brighter future in Limpopo.

9. Who was specifically commended for exceptional work?

   An unnamed Constable was commended for their diligence and unwavering commitment, leading to the successful conviction of a perpetrator in the heart-wrenching case of a 101-year-old victim.

10. Where can I find more news about the Premier’s office and provincial activities?

    You can find more news and updates from the Premier’s office by visiting the Premier’s Office News section.

11. Where can I learn more about the Limpopo Provincial Government?

    For more general information about the Limpopo Provincial Government and its various departments, please visit their official website: www.limpopo.gov.za.