President Cyril Ramaphosa: Recognizing and Empowering Women in Law Enforcement

In celebration of Women’s Month, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa commends the strides made in integrating women into the country’s law enforcement agencies. In his address at the Integrated Women in Law Enforcement Parade, the President highlights the progress made towards building a non-sexist society, where women enjoy equal rights and opportunities as guaranteed by the Constitution.

A History of Transformation

Over 50 years ago, women entered the South African Police to perform administrative and “soft” duties. Today, women are breaking through gender barriers and shattering glass ceilings, assuming their rightful place in police and security services. Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili serves as an inspiring example of this transformation, as the first-ever female Deputy National Commissioner for Policing and one of the two women co-chairing the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJoints).

Addressing Inequalities

While much progress has been made, President Ramaphosa acknowledges that there is still a long way to go. One significant achievement in the fight for gender equality in law enforcement is the DNA expansion project unveiled at the Forensic Science Laboratory in Gqeberha. The project aims to address backlogs in the analysis of DNA retrieved from crime scenes, with a particular focus on gender-based violence and femicide. The President commends the South African Police Service (SAPS) for their commitment to improving forensic capabilities, which will expedite investigations and aid in the conviction of perpetrators.

Praise for Progress

As Women’s Month concludes, President Ramaphosa expresses his appreciation for the women across all ranks in integrated security and law enforcement agencies. These women continue to make strides in fields once dominated by men, serving in national intervention units, special task forces, bomb disposal units, tactical response teams, and more. They also excel in positions such as pilots, forensic and DNA analysts, correction officials, engineers, and artisans.

Working Towards Equality

The President commends the Ministry of Police, the management of the SAPS, and the heads of other law enforcement agencies for working towards the goal of gender equality in the workplace. Remarkably, five out of nine Provincial Commissioners are women, a result of their hard work and dedication.

Acknowledging Struggles

President Ramaphosa acknowledges the struggles of women over generations that laid the foundation for these accomplishments. He welcomes the integration of multiple forces and capabilities led by women in the security and law enforcement space, emphasizing the importance of supporting these courageous women who work tirelessly to ensure South Africa’s safety.

A Shining Example

As the country continues to strive towards gender equality in all workplaces, the integrated law enforcement agencies serve as a shining example of progress and success.