Matsapha – His Majesty’s Correctional Services held a Gender Network workshop for Ingatja officers at the Staff College in Matsapha on Wednesday, aimed at strengthening officer wellness, professionalism and gender inclusivity within the service.
The workshop, organised by HMCS, was conducted under the theme “Ngiyi Correctional Officer, ngilijaha lelinelikusasa lelihle”, focusing on responsible leadership and positive decision making among male correctional officers.
Commissioner General LaMakhosini Phindile Dlamini attended the session alongside Deputy Commissioner Generals Luke Malindzisa and Vusi Kunene, Commissioners Cyril Maseko and Ephraem Tfwala, and other senior officers from across the service.
Discussions centred on the physical, mental, financial and emotional wellbeing of officers, with attention given to professional conduct, ethical service delivery and leadership within correctional facilities. Facilitators addressed wellness and behavioural challenges affecting male officers in the correctional environment.
Participants engaged on issues of gender roles, power relations, prevention of gender based violence, substance abuse and the need for informed life choices. The sessions reflected that gender mainstreaming extends beyond women’s empowerment and plays a role in building a disciplined, respectful and effective workforce where officers are treated with dignity.
The Ministry of Health was represented by Vusi Shabangu, who delivered a presentation on financial management, focusing on financial discipline and planning as part of personal and professional stability. Entertainment during the programme was provided by local artist Thaifo Son.
Addressing officers, Commissioner General Dlamini encouraged responsible conduct and sound financial management, stating that personal stability contributes directly to professional performance. She also informed participants that similar gender and wellness engagements would be extended to station level.
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