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A multi-agency Women in Law Enforcement Parade was held in Nababeep, Namakwa District, on Tuesday, 4 August 2026, to commemorate Women’s Month and recognise the invaluable contribution of women serving in law enforcement.
The event was attended by Namakwa District Municipality Executive Mayor, Councillor Alinda Beukes; Pixley Ka Seme District Commissioner, Major General Nomana Mtukushe, Frances Baard District Commissioner, Major General Charlotte Makgari; ZF Mgcawu District Commissioner, Major General Monica Sebili; and Namakwa District Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews.
They were joined by female Provincial Heads, senior officials from various government departments, and sponsors.
The parade comprised of women from the South African Police Service, the Department of Correctional Services, Provincial and Municipal Traffic Departments including Immigration Services from the Department of Home Affairs.
The parade showcased the discipline, resilience and professionalism of women in law enforcement under the command of Parade Commander, Sergeant Lesley Jaardzen.
The programme commenced with an inspiring devotion delivered by Chaplain Marsha Baard, while Captain Nomvuyo Makoloi served as the programme director.
Namakwa District Municipality Executive Mayor, Councillor Alinda Beukes, delivered the welcoming address, followed by Colonel Sebe Qunta, who outlined the purpose of the event.
Messages of support were delivered by senior female representatives from the Provincial Community Police Forum, the Department of Home Affairs, and the Department of Correctional Services.
Major General Charlotte Makgari addressed delegates on behalf of the Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola. She paid tribute to the women who have answered the call to serve and protect communities across the province, with emphasis on the 2026 theme: EMPOWERED WOMEN, EMPOWER NATIONS. Makgari encouraged women-in-law enforcement to remain steadfast in their commitment to serving with integrity while continuing to strengthen efforts to combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).
She further acknowledged the versatility, resilience, and invaluable contribution of women in policing and law enforcement. “Your leadership and professionalism are commendable and truly admirable,” said Major General Makgari.
The formal proceedings were followed by an impressive march-past led by the Northern Cape Provincial Band.
Brigadier Schalk Andrews concluded the programme by delivering a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to all departments, stakeholders and participants for making the event a success.
Community members and learners from Nababeep were also treated to an operational simulation by female members of Springbok Public Order Police, demonstrating the strength, skill, and operational capabilities of women in policing.
The simulation was coordinated by the Provincial Head of Pro-Active Policing, Brigadier Irene Kopeledi.
The event was supported by key stakeholders, including Polmed and ASSUPOL.
As part of the programme, new SAPS vehicles allocated for deployment across the Namakwa District were officially handed over to Brigadier Schalk Andrews.
These additional resources will enhance the district’s operational capacity and enable the men and women in blue to continue delivering effective and efficient policing services to the communities they serve.
To conclude the day’s activities, female law enforcement officers led by the female District Commissioners executed Operation Basadi disruptive actions in Springbok, Okiep, Nababeep, Concordia and Steinkopf, reinforcing the commitment of the South African Police Service and its partners to ensuring the safety and protection of all communities, particularly women, children, and other vulnerable groups.
Compliance inspections were conducted at liquor outlets, formal and informal businesses as well as stop and search actions and high visibility patrols.
Operation Basadi disruptive actions will continue unabated throughout Women’s Month across the Province.
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