A LIFE OF SERVICE: DAVID CHABALALA BIDS FAREWELL TO PUBLIC SERVICE

By Lucky Thebe

• As Mzamane David Chabalalala, a stalwart of the public service, retires after almost three decades, he says a new chapter is about to begin – one of community advocacy for South Africa’s children.
• ⁠Chabalala’s journey has been based on a deep commitment to social justice, from his early days in the labour movement to becoming a respected public servant.
• His contribution to the country has been vast, ranging from shaping labour laws and policies to advancing children’s rights.

After nearly three decades of dedicated service to the government and a lifetime of advocating for workers and children, Mzamane David Chabalala is preparing to close a remarkable chapter of his life as he retires on 31 March 2026.

Born on 8 August 1962 and raised in a small village in Mokopane, Limpopo, Chabalala’s journey is one shaped by humility, resilience, and a deep commitment to social justice. From his early days in the manufacturing sector to becoming a respected public servant, his life reflects a passion for improving the lives of others.

Before entering government, Chabalala was actively involved in the labour movement, serving as a shop steward and organiser for the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa. It was here that he developed a strong foundation in workers’ rights and advocacy, a calling that would define much of his career.

In 1996, during the dawn of South Africa’s democratic era, he joined the Department of Labour, where he played a key role in shaping the country’s labour landscape. Among his notable contributions was his involvement in the development of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, a cornerstone of workers’ rights in South Africa.

His work extended into developing sectoral determinations for vulnerable and often unregulated industries, including the domestic work, taxi, and security sectors. These efforts ensured that thousands of workers received greater protection and recognition under the law.

Chabalala also led the implementation of Section 43 of the Act, focusing on the prohibition of child labour. This work became a defining feature of his career and paved the way for his appointment in 2005 by the Presidency to lead national efforts on child labour.

His role expanded beyond South Africa’s borders as he contributed to continental and global initiatives aimed at promoting and protecting children’s rights. His experience in these platforms strengthened South Africa’s voice in international child protection discourse.

In 2014, he joined the Department of Social Development, where he continued his lifelong mission of advancing children’s rights. He played a key role in the development and implementation of the National Plan of Action for Children and contributed to major platforms such as the Global Conference on the Elimination of Child Labour and the Africa Children’s Summit.

Reflecting on his journey, Chabalala speaks with both pride and emotion.

“There is a lot to mention as one is exiting. Sometimes I become emotional, leaving this institution that is my family. I will miss this space and the wonderful colleagues I worked with,” he shared.

Known for his humility and deep sense of connection with colleagues at all levels, Chabalala expressed gratitude not only to the professionals he worked alongside but also to the support staff who form the backbone of the department.

He leaves behind a powerful message for those continuing the work, especially within the Office on the Rights of the Child.

“We were a small team, but I would like to encourage you to keep up the good working spirit. It’s about time to translate our great policies into meaningful interventions to change the lives of our children,” he said.

He also raised concern about ongoing social challenges affecting children, including substance abuse, teenage pregnancy, and abuse, calling for stronger, more visible interventions.

Beyond his professional achievements, Chabalala is a family man, married for 45 years, with three sons and five grandchildren, an anchor that has supported him throughout his journey.

As he steps into retirement, his legacy remains firmly rooted in the policies he helped shape, the lives he touched, and the unwavering commitment he showed to protecting the most vulnerable.

However, Chabalala is clear that his work is far from over. He says he will continue to advocate for children’s rights at the community level, using his wealth of experience to drive change where it matters most.

A thorough gentleman, he has long been known for his readiness to take on media interviews on issues affecting children, often stepping in at the eleventh hour to ensure that the work of government in protecting children is communicated. His passion is unmistakable; no interview would end without him referencing the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, a reflection of his deep-rooted commitment to the cause.

A simple conversation with him would quickly turn into a masterclass on children’s rights, as he draws from legislation, policy, and lived experience to demonstrate how South Africa’s democratic government has amplified the voice and protection of every child.

Closing this chapter, he leaves colleagues with words of faith and encouragement drawn from Proverbs 3:5–6 which states, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and submit to Him in all your ways, and He will guide your path”, urging them to trust in the journey ahead.

David Chabalala’s story is not just one of service but of purpose, impact, and enduring dedication to building a better South Africa for all, especially its children.