The evening of 27th March 2018…a Tuesday night to remember for officials at the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs, when the MEC Mr VR Shongwe wrapped up the 2017/18 financial year in style, handing over certificates of excellence to staff members who outperformed themselves in the past year. This, during the inaugural MEC’s Excellence Awards at Nutting House which, according to the MEC, are generally aimed at awarding service excellence and to encourage staff to perform to the best of their ability, in the name of service delivery.
Speaking at the awards, MEC Shongwe said the awards are aimed at enhancing service delivery, and to acknowledge staff’s contribution to the success of the Department. “The achievement of any organisation relies in its staff. Here we say “Thank You” for your role in flying the DARDLEA brand and flag high. We hope with these awards, you will continue in serving the department with dedication and passion”, said MEC Shongwe. He also shared his personal take and tips on issues of dedication, professionalism and perseverance, while motivating staff to do more with less.
Officials received certificates based on their immediate managers’ nominations, from different sections within the Department. Also, officials who represented the Department and won at National Awards award ceremonies also received special MEC’s recognition, for representing the province and for being the best example in the whole public service. A few weeks before these Awards, Mr Rodgers Mngomezulu from the department’s Bohlabela District office scooped the national Overall Batho Pele Award at a ceremony in Gauteng.
The gala dinner was also attended by the ANC Chief Whip in the Legislature, Mr JJ Skosana, among other guests.