By Theodorah waga Mawasha
KGAPANE-FOR 37 years, Lieutenant Colonel Dinah Machete, selflessly put her own life on the line in the name of serving and protecting the community.
Modjadjiskloof Police Station Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Machete bids her duties farewell at the end of the month.
Lieutenant Colonel Machete established herself as a professional and prides herself in the work she did in the communities she served.
Colonel Machete’s career in the SAPS started in July 1986. She took Tzaneen Voice down memory lane as she reflected on her journey.
“I was still young when I started in the force and I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here because I loved my job. Roadblock operations fulfilled me”, she said.
“I have also had my fair share of challenges. Being a woman and in charge came with its hurdles, especially in villages where tradition and culture are still maintained. I would sometimes be undermined by my male counterparts because they tended to overlook women. I survived because I always stood my ground”, Machete added.
The Colonel started her service at Mokopane and was promoted to Sergeant while working at Namakgale police station in 1993. She went on to serve at Makhado SAPS where she was promoted to a police Captain and has since grown from strength to strength and has stood the test of time.
She highlighted that the love, respect and loyalty to her juniors and people from all walks of life have been a driving force in her long-standing career.
“I take away the love I still carry for the people I met along my journey. I wish those who remain behind can steer clear of corruption. I wish for my predecessor to enforce discipline and uphold the integrity of the SAPS and the office he/she will occupy “,.
In closing, the Colonel reiterated that she will bow out on Friday, June 30. She looks forward to starting up a business and spending time with her grandchildren to make up for lost time.
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