Wathint’ Abafazi Wathint’ Imbokotho (Woman’s Day Celebration) Article and photos by AB Sinethemba Ndawule Enquiries: 021 787 4697

On a bright shiny day of the 17^th of August 2012, joint forces of woman gathered at 14 SAI BN Military Base in Mtata to celebrate woman’s month.  Their aim was to create awareness of woman in uniform around the King Sabatha Dalindyebo (KSD) District of the Eastern Cape.

As WO 1 N.T. Mbujana prepared the ladies in a period of two days it seemed like mission impossible as the ladies from South African Police Service (SAPS) struggled with the accuracy of the drilling movements of the South African Defence Force (SANDF).  With his patience and humbleness on the day of the race it turned out perfectly as woman in uniform were on point in the execution of the drill movements.

Woman in leadership from different department of government.

Upon the arrival of Ms N. Ngqongwa, the Mayor of the KSD, the parade gave a General Salute, Chaplain N. V. Nonjojo opened the day with a Scripture Reading and prayer, AB M. Moagi read the Code of Conduct, and the Executive Mayor inspected the parade thereafter.

Brig Gen W. N. Bobelo made the opening speech of the day, were she praised woman in uniform for the strength and ability that they have, Capt (Army) T.M. Ngxokolo gave a poem and Lt Col M. T. Mgidi introduced the guests attending the parade.

The parade consisted of 115 soldiers from 14 SAI BN, JTAC HQ EC, NSPE and police woman from KSD, they were addressed by the Executive Mayor, Counsellor Miss N. Ngqongwa, after her speech the parade marched passed and gave a General Salute to the Mayor.

Col. M. Mbeki giving a token of appreciation to Lt Gen D. M. Mgwebi	General salute by women on parade.

The Executive Mayor, members in uniform and spectators headed to the airport to see how far the construction on the development and the renewal of it was, as the airport was officially handed over to the SANDF.  From the airport the Mayor headed to Eluxolweni Care Centre, school for boys who lost their parents.  Old Mutual donated food and groceries worth Five thousand rands to the school.

Groceries donated by Old Mutual.	Old Mutual representatives.

The school has only 20 boys from the ages 8 to 20years, it has produced graduates in different fields such as law, accounting, and a few of them are doing grade 12 this year.  Mrs Mpahlwa who is the chairperson of the committee that started the school, is the stepmother of Brig Gen W.M. Bobelo and she is an in-law to Lt Gen D.M. Mgwebi.

Soldiers from 14 SAI BN rejoicing for the day.

Wathint' abafazi, wathint' imbokotho, was truly shown by these woman, as they have showcased the potential and capabilities that they have.