CELEBRATING YEARS OF SERVICE: DSD BIDS FAREWELL TO RETIREES

By Thandeka Stampu

• A bittersweet event took place in Pretoria, with the Department of Social Development bidding farewell to several retiring employees.
• They were celebrated and honoured for their many years of dedicated service and for laying a foundation on which the department can build a strong future.
• Minister Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe noted that their work had “positively shaped communities and strengthened the fabric of society”.

The Department of Social Development gathered at the Southern Sun in Pretoria to celebrate and honour retiring employees for their many years of dedicated public service.

The event on 30 March 2026 was held under the theme “Celebrating and appreciating unwavering service to government and country”.

Minister Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe, who was among the dignitaries present, expressed her deep appreciation for the retirees’ unwavering commitment and service to the department and the nation. She praised their tireless efforts, noting that their work had “positively shaped communities and strengthened the fabric of society”.

The ceremony highlighted not only their professional achievements but also the personal connections they have formed over the years.

While sharing fond memories and recounting moments of unity and resilience, it became apparent that they all shared in a common purpose – to make the lives of South Africans better.

The retirees were acknowledged as mentors, friends, and fundamental members of the department’s family.

Minister Tolashe emphasised that retirement should not be viewed as an ending, but rather as a new season: “An opportunity to harvest the fruits of years of labour, impart wisdom, and enjoy life with dignity.”

The department’s Director of Special Projects, Advocate Samuel Maifadi, highlighted that many of the retirees were celebrated as “midwives of a new developmental agenda”, having played key roles in shaping policies and driving social projects.

Maifadi reassured the retirees that their legacy would continue to shape the department long after their departure. “Your impact (can be) beautifully compared to that of a flourishing tree, offering shade and inspiration long after it has been planted,” he noted.

Their professionalism and composure were praised as examples of public service excellence.

Closing the event, the acting Deputy Director General of Community Development, Dr Mbulaheni Mulaudzi, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the retirees’ contributions, loyalty, and support throughout the department’s growth and transformation.

They leave behind a strong foundation on which future successes will be built.