Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has commended the province’s men and women in blue for their dedication and commitment to public safety, as she officiated the 2025 South African Police Service (SAPS) Provincial Excellence Awards held at The Ranch Protea Hotel outside Polokwane on Friday night.
The glittering ceremony honoured officers and civilian employees who have demonstrated exceptional service, discipline, and leadership in their respective fields.
Senior government and police officials attended the event, including Violet Mathye, MEC for Transport and Community Safety; Jerry Maseko, MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture; Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, provincial police commissioner; Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, SAPS deputy national commissioner for policing; and His Grace, the Right Reverend Bishop Dr Engenas Joseph Lekganyane of the St Engenas Zion Christian Church (ZCC).
Opening the proceedings, Hadebe led a moment of silence in honour of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
She praised members of the SAPS for their integrity and professionalism, saying excellence was not only about results but also about “integrity in action, professionalism in service, and compassion in leadership.”
“Through discipline and service, you continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you swore to protect,” said Hadebe.
Delivering the keynote address, Premier Ramathuba highlighted the importance of strengthening collaboration between law enforcement and traditional leadership to curb crime in rural communities.
She also applauded the growing representation of women in policing.
“Our women officers continue to break barriers, demonstrating remarkable dedication and leadership across all ranks,” Ramathuba said.
Lieutenant General Mosikili lauded the award recipients as “true examples of resilience and dedication,” urging them to continue serving with pride and professionalism.
Among those recognised was Ohrigstad police station, which scooped the coveted Overall Best Station award, while Lieutenant Colonel Tambani from the Thohoyandou Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC) took home the Overall Catch of the Year award, walking away with a mountain bike prize.
Other notable winners included:
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Sergeant Rikhotso – Visible Policing Employee of the Year
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Lieutenant Colonel Nkuna – Detective and Forensic Employee of the Year
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Sergeant Mathebula – Woman of the Year
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Warrant Officer Radebe – Man of the Year
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Constables Mushaku and Mathonsi – Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year
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Most Improved District: Mopani
Among the shining moments of the night was the recognition of Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, who walked away with the prestigious Senior Administration Manager of the Year award.
Brigadier Mashaba, who serves as the provincial head for corporate communication and Liaison, has played a pivotal role in shaping and enhancing the image of the SAPS in Limpopo. Through strategic media liaison, effective stakeholder engagement, and innovative communication strategies, he has strengthened public confidence and fostered greater cooperation between the SAPS, communities, and the media fraternity.
Under his dynamic leadership, SAPS Limpopo has experienced a renewed focus on positive storytelling — profiling the achievements, dedication, and human spirit of members who go beyond the call of duty. His efforts have ensured that the province’s successes are not only celebrated internally but also resonate widely, reinforcing public trust in policing.
Mashaba’s recognition was hailed as a fitting tribute to a leader whose professionalism, authenticity, and vision continue to uplift the image and reputation of the SAPS in Limpopo.
In her closing remarks, Hadebe congratulated all the winners and nominees, urging them to maintain their momentum as the festive season approaches.
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