ISSUE 04 | 2023
1.
Guest Editor
2.
Surgeon General’s Message
3.
13.
Excellence and Exceptional Service
South African Military
Delivery
Health Service Unveiled Corporate Prestigious
17.
Events 5.
Triumph on the Greens: Surgeon General’s Prestige Charity Golf Day
7.
19.
Health Warriors Extending A Helping Hand
9.
SAMHS: Honouring
Col R.P. Makopo (Chairperson) Lt Col H. Cele (Editor) Lt Col M.C. Majavu (Content Manager)
Maj S. Dlakamela ( Content Analysis)
South African Military
Maj K.L. Fourie (Design & Layout)
Health Service observed
Capt M.T. Tukula (Sub-Editor)
World AIDS Day in
Capt R.S. Megit (Audio-visuals)
conjunction with GBV
Capt D.T.M. Matsebangope (Guest Editor)
The Surgeon General
Lt M. Lekgwareng (Reporter)
Congratulates The Newly
Sgt J. Mogano ( Photojournalist)
Promoted General
Cpl N.S. Xuba ( Assignment Journalist)
Officers
Pte T. Makola ( Assignment Journalist)
In Memory Of Heroes: Wreath-Laying Ceremony
22.
The Warrant Of The SAMHS Congratulates
11.
Editorial Team
SAMHS Interfaith Thanksgiving Service: A Celebration Of
We would greatly appreciate hearing from you...
The Newly Promoted Chief Warrant Officers
Your opinions, questions and expert analysis.
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Achievements And Gratitude
samhsnews@gmail.com
F rom the Guest Editor
I
t is with great pleasure and honor to serve as the Guest Editor for the special and final edition of the SAMHS News 2023.
I would like to touch on a significant socio-economic factor that affects our daily lives, climate change has a significant impact on both the environment and the economy of South Africa. As temperatures rise, the country experiences more frequent and severe droughts, leading to water scarcity and reduced agricultural productivity. This affects food security and livelihoods, especially for rural communities that mainly rely on agriculture. Extreme hot and cold weather have increased, altering rainfall seasonality and leading to severe floods and storms that damage infrastructure. As we are nearly at the end of the year, we would like to look back on the accomplishments of the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS) members. The SAMHS News team compiled SAMHS Prestige Week articles for its readers in this special edition during the week that SAMHS was showcasing its capabilities, recognizing dedicated and hardworking members.
The events of the week begun with the Opening Parade, where the Surgeon General of the South African National Defence Force, Lieutenant General Ntshavheni Peter Maphaha, officially opened all the activities lined up for the week. We will read more about the SG’s Charity Golf Day that took place, the aim of this event is to raise funds for the projects that SAMHS is supporting, namely the CSANDF Education trust, 1 Military Hospital Pediatric Ward and to strengthen the relationship between SAMHS and its external stakeholders. SAMHS also embarked on a community outreach that was led by the Director Social Work and was in line with the commemoration of 16 Days of Activism of No Violence against Women and Children. They visited Potters House, a home for temporary shelter for women and children who are affected by Gender Base Violence in their families. Furthermore, the SG’s Thanksgiving took place at the Military Health Training Formation (MHTF).
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The event mainly aims to create the opportunity for the SG to appreciate the SAMHS members and wish them blessings for the festive season ahead. Chaplains from other security clusters graced the event with their presence and gospel singers who blessed the congregation. Discover more about the SAMHS Prestige Corporate Awards, a significant event that celebrates the unwavering commitment and outstanding contributions of individuals, formations and units within the military health service. These prestigious awards aims to instil confidence in the employees, acknowledging their skills and boosting self-esteem. We look back at where we came from and have a moment to think about where we are going to as we pursue the future with hope. SAMHS News would like to thank everyone for their support throughout the year 2023. Your positive feedback motivated and kept the team going even in the most difficult circumstances. May 2024 bring you happiness, new goals, achievements and abundant inspirations in your life.
Guest Editor: Lt Col M.C. Majavu
Surgeon Gen er al’s M essage
F
ellow SAMHS members and colleagues, let me take this opportunity to greet you all and extend my warm Season’s Greetings to all the men and women who are serving this country within and beyond the borders of the Republic of South Africa, and are participating in Peace-Keeping Missions. Military attachés in diplomatic assignments across the world, Commanders of Formations and Units and at military healthcare institutions; patriots who are serving the brave in different parts of the country and the region. As the year 2023 draws to a close, it is important to review our engagements and plans for the year. This year has proved to be the year of success, looking into the achievements in terms of the annual work sessions we had in the beginning of the year, staff visits to oversee service delivery in some units that were remaining, the unveiling of the Surgeon General’s theme (Towards Military Health Excellence) for the next five years, and the annual SAMHS Academic Days seminar. Above all, the celebration of our capabilities as the military health service during the SAMHS
Prestige Week, conferring and recognising the deserving members during the Corporate Awards Evening despite budgetary constraints. As we enter the festive season, let us remember that, it is the season of hope, peace and love. It’s been a great honour for me to hand out those awards to members that have excelled this year in providing and supporting military health excellence. Most of all, we must celebrate the gift of life, let’s cherish these values of humanity with our families, loved ones and fellow colleagues and celebrate the new season. We also need to thank our families and fellow colleagues who supported us during trying times. When I assumed my term of office two years ago, I reassured you that, the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS) will continue to work diligently in providing healthcare service. And we will soldier on despite the unprecedented budget reduction as was announced by National Treasury.
initiatives, our military health care professionals will always be ready to provide health care in times of need. I would like to congratulate all members that have accomplished great achievements this year in their careers, particularly those that were promoted to senior management in the SAMHS recently. And I also send my compassion to the families that have lost their family members this year, may they heal and be comforted in this season. I wish you all a safe festive season and prosperous New Year ahead. I thank you.
We are anticipating the next year’s 30th general elections as a nation and as an organisation that provides security and health care for national government and its
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LIEUTENANT GENERAL (DR) NTSHAVHENI PETER MAPHAHA PSC (J), ENSP
South African Military Health Service Unveiled Corporate Prestigious Events
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he military health service launched its highly esteemed events to end the year in grand style. The South African Military Health Service (SAMHS) corporate event week packed programme was officially opened by the Surgeon General at Pretoria Military Sports Club (PMSC).
“I would like to use this opportunity to directly communicate my new theme for the coming five year period which is “Towards Military Health Excellence”, he emphasized in his opening address. The parade was honored by highest SAMHS Command echelon and representative from Chief Army office. The traditional military parade and the band livened the soldiers spirit of camaraderie and audience that attended the event. As the parade marched on just
before the arrival of the main functionary, Lieutenant General Peter Maphaha, there was an instinctive feeling of devotion and pride to the organization (esprit de corps) as SAMHS piper complimented by band blew explosive and exclusive Scottish piping song that brought everyone to attention. The distinct traditional allegro General Salute band played behind company parade in review, minutes before the SAMHS top General who inspected the parade ahead of his address. “We are currently embarked on 16 Days for No violence Against Women and Children in support of the national campaigns as we all know that Gender Based Violence has become the pandemic in our communities, he orated, “I also expect everyone to support this campaign on Friday morning as planned by our Director HIV/ AIDS, AMHF, social work officers in conjunction with their SAMHS healthcare counterparts as we will enter our 7th day of this campaign this month.
The Surgeon General with members of the SAMHS Command Council connecting, with the exhibitors during the opening of the prestige week.
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1 December World AIDS Day commemoration will be one of the biggest highlights in our health calendar this week.” Surgeon General reminded the parade participants and guests.
Article by Lt Col H. Cele Photographs by Sgt J. Mogano
Maj S.M. Sekonyela the parade commander, leading with determination as the parade march in perfect unison during the opening parade.
The presence of Grade 11 (eleven) and 12 (twelve) pupils from local Phelindaba High School, in Atteridgeville, characterized the importance of SANDF, particularly SAMHS in our community.
November 2021. The series of events escalated to Thanksgiving
Institute of Aviation Medicine (IAM) exhibitors stole the hearts of the young high scholars. SSgt S.C. Malema and his colleagues explained passionately the importance and the role played by military medics in airborne patient medical care. This is one of the specialized institution they had never imagined of in the military. Amongst other exhibition that illuminated SAMHS Prestige Week opening were, Military Veterinary Institute, Oral Health, 7 Medical Battalion, provincial Department of WO2 M. Tau guiding the band with precision, Health. The Surgeon General setting the tempo for a captivating delivered his inaugural performance. SAMHS prestige week speech for the first time since he assumed term of office in
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and prestigious corporate awards evening and culminated on 01 December 2023, through social responsibility programmes (community outreach) and community involvement health programmes such as World AIDS Day, 16 Days of Activism and Gender Based Violence (GBV) and other festivities at Pretoria Military Sports Field in Thaba Tshwane. SAMHS as the only service that provides military health care in all armed forces including Special Forces, its celebration and festivities of the year is indeed worthy to be celebrated. The South African Military Health Service (SAMHS) provides clinical and medical support to the South African armed forces in joint military operations and peace support mission in the region. And is also responsible for comprehensive medical cover for SANDF dependents and statesmen.
Triumph on the Greens: Surgeon General’s Prestige Charity Golf Day Raises Funds and Fosters Connections
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he Surgeon General’s Prestige Charity Golf day was held at the eminent Pebble Rock Golf and Country Club nestled in the heart of Roodeplaat on November 29, 2023, where wild life was a common feature while the golfers were scoring their holes
in one. The day started off on a good spirit whereby some members of the Military Council, sponsors, the formidable SAMHS golf players and other esteemed invited golf players were in tow for registration and receiving their golf goodie which were proudly sponsored by Sanlam Sky and Liberty. The morning started on a high note where golf players chatted the morning away and proceed to find out which four ball team they were a part of.
The co-host of the Surgeon General Prestige Charity Golf Day Lieutenant General (Retired) A.P. Sedibe was welcomed by the current Surgeon General Lieutenant General N.P. Maphaha, then officiated the opening of the first tee off where he thanked everyone for their attendance and wished them well for the rest of the game. The SAMHS Command Council attended the golf day in support of the prestige week that was taking place and visited various watering holes which were sponsored by the various sponsors that the SAMHS deals with throughout the year. The retired and current serving members of the military command, sponsors and the cream of the crop SAMHS Golf players came together to enjoy the beautiful and peaceful greens of Pebble Rock Golf Club. The atmosphere was on an all time high, the golfer’s competitive streak had already commenced and new relationships were forged with the four ball teams competing.
Lt Gen N.P. Maphaha joining hands with the sponsors at the SG’s Charity Golf Day, uniting for a common cause.
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Article by Lt M. Lekgwareng Photographs by Sgt J. Mogano
Golf players attentively listening during the opening of the Surgeon General’s Charity Golf Day at Pebble Rock Estate, ready for a day of camaraderie.
The second charity golf held for this year was not only forge new stakeholder relationships but to bring the true essence of this day, and that is to raise funds for the C SANDF Educational Trust and restoring the needs of the Paediatric, Oncology and Rehabilitation wards across the military hospitals in the country. As part of the co-host duties Lt Gen (Ret) A.P. Sedibe announced the winners of the day which culminated from the Army Foundation sponsored team and the stellar SAMHS golfers. The winners of the Prestige Charity Golf Day were Maj Gen (Ret) A.M. Sibango, Lt Col D. Marais, SCWO M. Dyantyi and S/Sgt N.E. Burger. SCWO M. Dyantyi was the overall winner where he won a midweek getaway at the Rhemardo.
build relationships, forming business partnerships and brokering deals. He stated that many sponsors pledge for those in need that may benefit through golf and provide essential financial support for the charities that the SAMHS supports. He thanked the various sponsors for their unwavering support towards this good cause and he sincerely wished for more support in the coming years. The Golf Committee Chairperson Brigadier General Kwena Mabotja ended off the golf day with a quote from Helen Keller which simply says “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” And this has simply culminated the reason of why the Surgeon General Charity Golf Day exists. To help those in need.
Lt Gen N.P. Maphaha emphasized the importance of his golf is by providing a space for individuals to
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Health Warriors Extending A Helping Hand To Women And Children Affected By Gender Base Violence In Their Families
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1993 by Tshwane Leadership Foundation, the aim was to provide a space to women and children who seek refuge when their families and community fail to shield them from violence and violation of their human rights. These type of shelters empower women to leave their abusive
its capabilities and the best medical service to the military community under the theme “Healthy lifestyle Exhibitions” and promoting the newly adopted theme “Towards Military Health Excellence”. Community outreach was one of the lined up projects for the week under the leadership of Director Social Work.
where the SAMHS was showcasing
disease.
n commemorating 16 Days of Activism of No Violence The event against Women commenced with and Children as one a short formal of the government programme where campaigns, Director Captain Neliswa Social Work, Promise Mseleku Brigadier General from Oncology Cynthia Pitse, Department at 1 members of the Military Hospital Command and Staff presented an Council and other interesting topic stakeholders visited on cervical and “Potters House” at breast cancers, Burgers Park Lane, early detection Pretoria Central. A and treatment home that provides a onwards. She temporary shelter to encouraged women and children women that are at that are affected by the age of 40 and Gender Based above to undergo Violence in their Brig Gen A.C. Pitse delivering her address at the Potter’s House inspiring mammogram families. Potters and empowering with her words. because at that House is composed relationships and rebuild their age women are at risk of having the of approximately 40 women and lives. disease. Captain Mseleku advised children who are in need of the The event took place on 29 the attendees to live a healthy shelter because of the November 2023 during the South lifestyle by eating healthy and circumstances they are facing back African Military Health Service exercising by doing so it will at home. (SAMHS) Prestige Week, a week decrease the chances of having the Potters House was established in
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Article by Lt Col M.C. Majavu Photographs by Capt M.T. Tukula
SAMHS members standing alongside Potter’s House support staff fostering collaboration and community support.
positive note, the reports highlighted that shelters like Potters House are doing an admirable job and while funding received is not sufficient. We are looking forward to expanding this collaboration under Project Owethu and building a more sustainable and productive relationship for the sake of the
combat readiness and resilience of the SANDF.
Brig Gen Pitse in her speech said, “We decided to get involved in a community outreach that will also Ms Delene Isac from Potters align with 16 Days of Activism of House expressed her gratitude to No Violence Against Women and everyone who made the day a Children. Today with this success and wishing to have a long community outreach project at lasting relationship with the Potters House we are also SANDF. Afterwards the SAMHS honouring and pledging Command and Staff our support to our members handed partners who are out the donations. helping us in addressing The organising team the pandemic called thanked all Gender Base Violence Formations/Units in the country”. She and external emphasised that, “we as stakeholders for all the South African the donations. Military Health Service acknowledges that we cannot attain military health excellence whilst our women and children are suffering. The Potters House provides resources and services to GBV survivors which is essential to restore their Capt N.P. Mseleku from Oncology Department at 1 Military Hospital human dignity and their presenting an interesting topic on cervical and breast cancers. wellbeing. She continued on a
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In Memory Of Heroes: Wreath-Laying Ceremony
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n the wake of the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, nations around the world find themselves grappling not only with the profound loss of life but also with the collective grief that unites us all. In this solemn moment, a military wreath-laying ceremony emerges as a poignant tribute to those who
served on the front lines of the battle against an invisible enemy, paying the ultimate price in the line of duty. The global pandemic has reshaped our understanding of heroism and sacrifice, thrusting healthcare workers, first responders, and essential workers onto a new battlefield. In our military community, these individuals fought tirelessly, demonstrating courage, compassion, and resilience in the face of an
unprecedented health crisis. As we gather to pay our respects to those who lost their lives to COVID-19, the wreath takes on a new layer of significance. Crafted with care and adorned with symbols of hope, the wreath stands as a testament to the unity of purpose that emerged during these challenging times. Its circular form represents the interconnectedness of lives lost and the eternal impact these individuals have left on our communities. The military wreath-laying ceremony for those lost to COVID-19 is conducted with the same precision and dignity as any other military tribute. The Surgeon General, Lt Gen N.P. Mahapa, carefully placed the wreath at the designated memorial site.
A solemn salute: Surgeon General and members of SAMHS Command Council pay tribute to the departed comrades, honouring their service and sacrifice.
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Article by Maj K. Jonk Photographs by Sgt J. Mogano
Lieutenant General Ntshavheni Peter Maphaha laying a wreath to honour and remember those who bravely served the organisation.
The ceremony included the playing of Taps, a moment of silence, and the folding of the flag, creating a solemn atmosphere that honors the memory of those who served on this unexpected front line. “In this ceremony, we not only acknowledge the sacrifice of military personnel but also pay tribute to the sacrifices made by healthcare workers, first responders, and all those who faced the challenges of the pandemic head-on. Their commitment to the well-being of others, often at the expense of their own health, exemplifies the true spirit of heroism. As we participate in this military wreath-laying ceremony, let it serve as a call to remember and honor those who dedicated their lives to the service of others during the COVID-19 pandemic. May the wreath stand as a symbol of our gratitude, our grief, and our
commitment to never forget the sacrifices made on this new and unexpected battlefield” was quoted by the Surgeon General himself. Lt Gen N.P. Maphaha concluded by saying: “In the quiet moments of reflection during the military wreathlaying ceremony for those lost to COVID-19, we find solace in the collective memory of heroes who rose to the challenge, demonstrating that the spirit of selfless service and sacrifice transcends boundaries and circumstances. In their memory, we vow to carry their legacy forward, ensuring that their courage and compassion continue to inspire future generations”.
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SAMHS Interfaith Thanksgiving Service: A Celebration Of Achievements And Gratitude
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iving thanks and showing gratitude creates room for more, for one who constantly complains about what they do not have always misses the opportunity to see and appreciate what they have. The South African Military Health Service has accomplished a number of objectives this year, it went above and beyond its
expectations considering all the trials and tribulations. It is therefore the reason why giving thanks and gratitude is pivotal.
opportunity to acknowledge the blessings from the divine being. It also inspires tolerance and mutual respect.
The South African Military Health Service held its profound interfaith thanksgiving service at the Military Health Training Formation (MHTF), Thaba Tshwane on 30 November 2023. The congregants were welcomed by Brigadier General Andile Mbiza General Officer Commanding of MHTF. The fundamental purpose of the service was to express gratitude and foster unity. The interfaith thanks giving affords members from diverse religious backgrounds an
The moving and vibrant service was well attended by the Military Health members who also wanted to convey their heartfelt gratitude. It attracted people from all walks of life, in attendance was Chief Chaplain Tshwane Metro Police Department Pastor (TMPD) N. Chauke who was the motivational speaker. Malan A.M Mlangeni did the thanks giving prayer where he wished everyone abundance and peace. Colonel J. van Straaten the Deputy Director South African Police Service (SAPS) said the benedictions at the end of the service. This service was not going to be such a success had it not been for the talented artists who graced it with their presence. Performances from artists such as Lieutenant Christopher Makubule, Airmen Ntokozo Nkabinde, Dimakatso Lee and Mpho Thosago kept the congregation on their feet.
Lt Gen N.P. Maphaha guides a candlelight ceremony, paying tribute to our fallen heroes during a heartfelt thanksgiving at Military Health Training Formation.
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Article by Pte T. Makola Photographs by Sgt J. Mogano
Colonel (Rev) F.B.P.T. Meulenbeld read a sincere sermon about gratitude, he reminded the gathering about the importance of a grateful heart. Most often than not we tend to focus on what we lost or did not achieve and this steals time and opportunity to appreciate what we have. The Surgeon General of the South African National Defence Force, Lieutenant General N.P. Maphaha conveyed his immense gratitude to the men and women in a maroon beret he said “As the SAMHS we remain grateful to God Members unite in joyous celebration, offering praises and gratitude during the thanksgiving for his love and guidance, festivities. I want to thank and express my gratitude to everyone organization in its journey towards who has been part of the SAMHS military health excellence. journey”. The SG applauded everyone who contributed to the development and growth of the
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SAMHS: Honouring Excellence and Exceptional Service Delivery
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he South African Military Health Service Prestige Week 2023 culminated with a night of the stars gala evening held at Council for Scientific and Industrial Research International Convention Centre on the 30 November 2023.
who serve their country. The ultimate goal is to promote a new culture of dedication, integrity and effective servitude in the SAMHS.” The Surgeon General furthermore, emphasized that this awards ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also commended the collective efforts of various departments. These members who have won tonight represent the noblest values of employees all over the nine provinces: a passion for patient care, a desire for a better health, a yearning for knowledge and a
commitment to patients.” This auspicious occasion underscored the importance of continuous improvement and adaptation within the military health service. By acknowledging and rewarding excellence, SAMHS aims to inspire spirit of innovation and dedication, ensuring that the organisation remains at the forefront of providing top-notch healthcare to the military community.
The SAMHS Prestige Gala Evening is a significant occasion that highlights the dedication and outstanding contributions of individuals, formations and units within the military health service. As we navigate through tough times of adversity, it is critical to shed light on their unwavering commitment by acknowledging and honouring those who went above and beyond in ensuring the highest standards of service delivery on the greater mission.
Lieutenant General Ntshavheni Peter Maphaha as the primary functionary delivered a moving speech to the attendees. During his address the General echoed words of encouragement and said, “this prestige event serves as a reminder of the selfless service, sacrifice and dedication that is required of those
Lt Col T.C. Chabalala proudly receiving the Lt Gen D.T. Masuku Award for unwavering dedication and hard work, presented by the Surgeon General.
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Article by Capt M.T. Tukula Photographs by Sgt J. Mogano
complexities with the skill of a master navigator, ensuring that all vehicles were not just procured but delivered within the confines of the financial year. But his achievements extend far beyond the administrative realm. His technical prowess came to the fore as he engaged with vehicle converters, meticulously overseeing the conversion process. His commitment to ensuring that each vehicle was built to precise specifications demonstrated not only technical acumen but an unwavering commitment to excellence. Brig Gen M.Z. Mdutywa and Maj S. Mtshali , Project OWETHU leadership honoured with the Sword of Peace Award in recognition of their outstanding humanitarian efforts.
One of the major awards of the night was Lieutenant General D.T. Masuku Award which is a (SAMHS employee of the year). Lieutenant Colonel T.C. Chabalala SAMHS HQ Logistics, SO1 Mobile Evacuation Product System Manager, scooped the award for his hard work and dedication.
ambulances to highly adaptable mobile clinics, mass transport, and recovery vehicles. The imperative was clear - to replace an aging ambulance fleet that had served its purpose, rendering Lt Col Chabalala's task not just significant but truly vital. In the crucible of the challenge his mettle shone.
The mission was to procure vehicles within a congested timeline, spanning from life-saving
His dedication was unwavering, his resolve unyielding. He charted a path through bureaucratic
The Sword of Peace Award is conferred upon the SAMHS formation, unit or an individual that achieved the most exceptional accomplishment in the humanitarian field ultimately resulting in contributing to the government outcome of “support to the people”. An award can be shared between multiple units or individuals. The Project OWETHU Team received the Sword of Peace for their sterling work they carried out during the Armed Forces Celebrations that took place on February 2023 in Richards Bay, north of Kwa Zulu-Natal. Project OWETHU is targeting deep rural and marginalised communities and aims at giving hope to the people ‘one community at a time’, was the slogan. In the pursuit of excellence, we find not accomplishment but also inspiration. As we celebrate and appreciate the brilliance that defines our endeavours.
We acknowledge that the true success lies in the relentless commitment to surpassing our best.
Lt Col C. Marais, Maj Gen (Ret) A.M. Sibango and SCWO M. Dyantyi receiving the four ball trophy from Lt Gen (Ret) A.P. Sedibe.
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We congratulate and honour greatness, where recognition becomes the catalyst for even greater achievements.
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South African Military Health Service observed World AIDS Day in conjunction with GenderBased Violence
AIDS and GBV. Both of these issues are intertwined, perpetuating a cycle of inequality, stigma, and discrimination. On this occasion, it is crucial to understand the interconnectedness of HIV/AIDS and GBV.
Capturing the moment as the members finish a delightful fun walk.
The first of December brings global attention to the HIV/AIDS pandemic and aims to raise awareness, about HIV/AIDS and commemorating those who had lost their lives to this devastating disease. The significance of this day is further magnified as we shed light on the intersection between HIV/
Members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), from different units and Formation gathered at Thaba Tshwane Sports Ground on the morning of 1 December 2023 to commemorate World AIDS Day. The day unfolded when units and Formations walked with banners portraying messages that are in
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Support to individuals affected or infected with HIV/AIDS and GBV.
Candle lighting holds a significant symbolism, a way to remember and honour those who have lost their lives to AIDS. The South African Military Health Service, Surgeon General, Lieutenant General Ntshavheni Peter Maphaha lit a candle to create a peaceful and solemn atmosphere to reflect upon their memories and impact they had in our lives, let those affected by disease know that they are not alone and as military community we stand we them in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The intersection of HIV/ AIDS and gender-based violence has severe consequences for the physical, mental and social well-being of individuals affected. Survivors of violence may also experience mental health issues, substance abuse, and reduced quality of life, complicating the management of the pandemic. Various Military Personnel and Department of health exhibitors came in numbers to educate, discuss, and provide an opportunities to advocate for better prevention strategies, treatment options and support services for those affected by HIV/AIDS and
Article by Capt M. Molefe Photographs by Sgt J. Mogano
GBV. Lebogang Motau, a gender based violence victim from Free World Initiative, graced the event and narrated how she was raped and she made a choice to ensure that from that day she wants to put a stop to this so that there is no one next. She further said “as the woman, what we wear should not determine what someone can do and cannot do with my body, and if a child of 6 months and older woman can also be raped its shows that what we wear, where we are it is not the cause of rape”. GBV can result in forced or coerced sexual activity, making woman more susceptible to the virus transmission. Additionally, the fear of violence of discrimination often prevents woman for accessing crucial HIV prevention, testing and treatment services. During his address, Surgeon General of the SANDF, Ntshavheni Peter Maphaha mentioned that “World Aids Day is thus very important as it reminds
Ms Lebogang Motau a Gender Based Violence victim from the Free World Initiative, sharing her testimony.
the public that Human Immune Deficiency Virus has not gone away and that collectively, there is the need to increase awareness, fight Prejudice and improve education to maintain and achieve the aims and objectives of the country as set out in the National Strategic Plan on HIV, STI’s and TB.”
Surgeon General delivering his speech during the World AIDS Day 2023 commemoration at PMSC, Thaba Tshwane.
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The Surgeon General further highlighted the latest UNAIDS statistics as of 01 December 2023 which reflects approximately 85.5 Million people become infected with HIV and 40.4 Million have died from AIDS related illness. One of the biggest challenges is addressing HIV/AIDS and GBV is the pervasive stigma attached to both issues. Stigma fuels discrimination making it difficult for individuals affected by HIV or survivors of GBV to seek help or support. One of the most important issue is that
communities must be educated and promote empathy and understanding. GBV can feel comfortable seeking assistance without fear of judgment. Raising awareness of HIV/AIDS and GBV, challenging the stigma and discrimination faced by individuals living with HIV/AIDS and GBV, empowering survivors to speak out and access support services, engaging and mobilising communities and other stakeholders to take action. Recognising and addressing the intersection between HIV/AIDS and GBV, as these issues are deeply interconnected and often exacerbated by one another. Bringing these two issues together aims to create a platform for dialogue, education, and action towards a world free from HIV/ AIDS and GBV.
Position 1: 1 Military Hospital, Infection Unit
The day concluded with the price giving for the following categories: Best HIV/AIDS and GBV Banners Position 1: 1 Military Hospital, Infection Unit Position 2: TMHF Position 3: MMHF Position 2: Tertiary Military Health Formation
Fittest Walkers Position 1: Maj Dimpho Pooe – MHSF Position 2: Lt Col Louis Jakobus Theunassen- Infantry Formation Position 3: L/Cpl Chuene John Semenya –MHSF Reflecting on World Aids Day, the need to comprehensive education, accessible health, and gender Sensitive responses in our communities becomes paramount. In wielding the sword of knowledge and the shield of resilience, the hope of defeating both GBV and HIV/AIDS might not be a distant dream after all.
Position 3: Mobile Military Health Formation
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The Surgeon General Congratulates General Officers On their Appointments and Promotions
BRIGADIER GENERAL P.A. NONG
BRIGADIER GENERAL Z. MENJENJALO
DIRECTOR MILITARY HEALTH LOGISTICS
GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING PHARMACY SVC DIR
BRIGADIER GENERAL T.J. DHLADHLA
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DIRECTOR PSYCHOLOGY
BRIGADIER GENERAL J. MAGAN GOVIND
DIRECTOR ANCILLARY HEALTH
BRIGADIER GENERAL S.E. BUCKTON
BRIGADIER GENERAL J.P. MKHABELA
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DIRECTOR MEDICINE
DIRECTOR SPECIAL ACQUISITION
BRIGADIER GENERAL D.I. RAMASWE
GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING 1 MILITARY HOSPITAL
BRIGADIER GENERAL N.H. NJIKELANA
BRIGADIER GENERAL T.S. SPAMPOOL
DIRECTOR INTELLIGENCE SUPPORT
DIRECTOR PHYSICAL TRAINING SPORTS RECREATION
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The Warrant Of The SAMHS Congratulates The Chief Warrant Officers On their Appointments and Promotions
CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER I.M. MOLUBI
SAMHS CEREMONIAL
CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER R. MARAIS
FSM MHSF
CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER F. HLAHLA
FSM AMHF
CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER H. MASIUANA
FSM 1 MIL HOSP
Surgeon General Congratulates the Warrant Officers on their Appointments and Promotions
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