Pretoria: Ahead of the South African Police Service's annual commemoration day to honour 27 fallen officers, the SAPS has expressed gratitude towards the social media community, including influencers, for their efforts in raising and donating a total of R42,134 for the children of police officers who died in the line of duty. This initiative reflects the community's support and solidarity with the families of the fallen officers.
According to South African Police Service, the funds raised through the crowdfunding platform Back-a-Buddy have been deposited into the SAPSET bank account. Initially, the campaign aimed to purchase two cows for Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi; however, it transformed into a fundraising effort for the South African Police Education Trust Fund (SAPSET) after the senior officer declined the gift in adherence to SAPS policies prohibiting officers from accepting gifts related to their duties.
The community was encouraged to redirect their contributions to SAPSET, which provides financial support for school fees, uniforms, and stationery for the children of fallen officers. General Fannie Masemola, the National Commissioner of SAPS, extended his gratitude on behalf of Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi and the entire police force, acknowledging the significant impact of these contributions.
General Masemola highlighted that these funds will greatly assist in maintaining the education of these children. The SAPSET fund has already supported over 1,700 children, with more than 140 obtaining their senior certificates and at least 54 achieving post-school qualifications, including diplomas and degrees.
The SAPS commended the generosity of the social media community, wishing them continued prosperity and encouraging them to keep supporting others, embodying the spirit of Ubuntu for which South Africans are renowned. Since its establishment in 2010, over R21 million has been donated to ensure that the children of fallen officers have the opportunity to continue their education.