The Department of Health held a special Employee Appreciation Awards Ceremony recently to celebrate the dedication of its long-serving employees. The Executive Director for Health, Dr Gadirobe Mothibi, captured the essence of the event with her comments by saying:
“It’s not just about celebrating the years of service, but about reinforcing the values that drive the department forward—dedication, perseverance, and excellence in service delivery. It’s inspiring to see such a focus on uplifting morale and maintaining a high standard in healthcare, especially in such a demanding sector.”
She added that the Awards Ceremony served as a powerful reminder to all employees of the importance of their contributions while motivating them to continue pushing for excellence.
“It’s also a beautiful way to showcase the Health Department’s commitment to staff and the community it serves,” said Dr Mothibi.
Here is how some of the awardees felt about their recognition for long service in the City:
| Deputy Director: District Health Systems Development – Capital Frikkie Swanepoel says he joined the Health Department in January 1985.
“I started in Environmental Health and worked in this Unit until December 2000 when I was the Executive Officer: Environmental Health. I then became Regional Health Deputy Director of Region 3 (Sandton and Randburg).” In 2006, when the region amalgamated with Region 7 and became Region E, he was tasked with the Capital Programme of the Health Department. “The highlights of my 40 years are the many new clinics and even the refurbished facilities we have brought to the communities of Johannesburg,” says Frikkie. |
Emily Mokhine, is an admin officer in the Department of Health. She has been working for the City since 1984. “I started as an administration clerk and worked myself up to being a secretary and finally an administration officer,” says Emily.“We are working as a family within the City, and I enjoy serving people with love and understanding. I wish that all incoming employees will be dedicated to their work and be compassionate towards everyone they serve,” said Mokhine.She is grateful for the award because it shows that employees are appreciated in the City.  |
| Corrie Bezuidenhout, the Deputy Director for Environmental Health, has also worked in the City for 40 years. He says he has been awarded with great opportunities such as travelling overseas and working with Swedish company on air quality.“I was as nominated as the best Manager Environment Health when I was still working in the inner city. As an individual, there should always be something you strive for and something you wish to achieve in the workplace.”  |
28/03/2025