The Chief Whip of the Vhembe District Municipality, Mr Patrick Sikhutshi, says members of the emergency services should be given the recognition they deserve, because they risk their lives to save the lives of other community members.

He was addressing guests on behalf of the executive mayor, Irene Mutsila, during the Vhembe District Municipality Emergency Services Awards ceremony at Thohoyandou Fire Station (Muledane) last Friday.

The municipality rewarded individuals and groups who played a role in the Thohoyandou Shoprite Fire earlier this year, those who responded quickly and saved lives in accidents and those who assisted during February’s heavy floods. They were presented with trophies and certificates.

Sikhutshi said it was important to celebrate the achievements of the emergency service workers to thank them for their patriotism, dedication and hard work. “They even work on public holidays while the majority of community members are enjoying themselves with members of their families. They have displayed commitment and their achievements should not go unnoticed. As a municipality, we have a great responsibility to make sure that workers are motivated accordingly to strengthen our mission of delivering efficient service to the society. When we do functions like this next time, we will also invite the families of the staff members so that they can see the rewards of their loved ones who laboured for the sake of the community.”

Sikhutshi said the municipality was excited by the fact that there were staff members who had displayed exceptional achievements in their respective jobs. “We are here to salute men and women who have the respect for human life and displayed passion for their work. It is almost a clear fact that there are rewards after each piece of hard work. We hope these awards will motivate them to work harder for community development.”

Obviously on cloud nine, Ms Dolores Mailula, who received a Best Female Innovation Award for displaying exceptional work commitment during the Thohoyandou Shoprite fire, said: “I’m happy that my dedication has been recognized at last. I will work hard because I love my job. The award will remind me of the heavy flames that I risked my life for, only to protect the life and property of my fellow community members.”

* The function was made possible through the generous sponsorships of the South African Bureau of Standards, Dzudzanani Business Enterprise, Madima Panel Beaters, Ntaka Panel Beaters, Aubs Motors and Diesel Centre, Nemadavhela Self Reliance, TJ Manenzhe East of Eden, DP Tyres and Kitso Technologies.