BRIGADIER MACHAKELA HONOURED

On Wednesday, 2025-12-03, the Ekurhuleni District Police hosted a dignified farewell function in honour of their Deputy District Commissioner, Brigadier Lebohang Bernard Machakela, who retired after a stellar career of 40 years of unwavering commitment and dedicated service to the citizens in Gauteng Province and the Ekurhuleni District.

The event was held at Fahrenheit, Edenvale.The prestigious event, attended by the District Commissioner, Major General Anna Sithole. SAPS Ekurhuleni Brigadier Ntombizini Thethe, Brigadier Johanna Ngoma, Brigadier, Brigadier Lindani Ndlovu, Brigadier Cyril Nkuna, Brigadier Nonhlanhla Shezi, Ekurhuleni Station Commanders, Colleagues, family members and his fellow bikers, served as a tribute to a leader, whose dedication, sacrifice and service have left an indelible mark on Policing in the South African Police Service. In her speech, Brigadier Ntombizini Thethe outlined the purpose of the gathering as to honour a remarkable individual whose contributions reached far beyond job descriptions and performance metrics. She further described him as a mentor, a guide, a pillar of strength and a source of wisdom for many.

A Brigadier’s consistency, professionalism and compassion that carried the organisation and Ekurhuleni District through both challenging and triumphant moments. According to the District Commissioner Major General Sithole, they were bidding a farewell to the well-deserving manager, a mentor and a Jack of all trades. The successes that Brigadier Machakela achieved can be attributed to his attitude, and she considered herself fortunate to work alongside Brigadier Machakela.

Brigadier Machakela joined the SAPS on 24 April 1984, and in 1991 was promoted to the Lance Sergeant, 1993 promoted to Sergeant, 1998 promoted to Inspector, 2000 promoted to Captain, 2009 promoted to Senior Superintendent, 2010 promoted to Colonel, and in 2013 reached the distinguished rank of Brigadier.