17/08/2026
Empowering Women in Law Enforcement: IPA South Africa Hosts Landmark National Women’s Day Celebration
The International Police Association (IPA) South African Section proudly hosted a prestigious National Women’s Day Celebration at the picturesque Johann Rissik Guest House in Pretoria, bringing together female leaders and officers from across the country's law enforcement spectrum.
Organized in close partnership with the Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department (TMPD), the event honored the courageous women of 1956 whose unity and determination paved the way for modern gender equality in South Africa. Themed "Empowering Women in Law Enforcement," the gathering served as a powerful platform to celebrate the pivotal roles female officers play in leadership, decision-making, community safety, and sector transformation.
The event demonstrated remarkable inter-agency solidarity, drawing delegates and leadership from key national and municipal services, including:
South African Police Service (SAPS)
Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department (TMPD)
Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD)
Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD)
Durban Metropolitan Police Service (DMPS)
Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Police Department (NMBMPD)
Keynote addresses were delivered by distinguished leaders, including SAPS Major General Mantsi and TMPD Chief of Police Commissioner YCR Faro. Both keynote speakers offered powerful words of encouragement, urging female officers to stand firm in leadership, uplift and support one another, and continue building an inclusive, representative environment within the law enforcement sector.
Beyond celebrating current achievements, the IPA SA Section highlighted its ongoing commitment to supporting officers through international friendship, professional development, and community engagement.
"It was an absolute privilege to bring together such dedicated women from across so many law enforcement agencies," said Jacques Loots, LOC Chairperson and IPA SA Office Manager. "This event truly reflected our core motto—Servo Per Amikeco (Service Through Friendship)—as we stood united to honor the past and inspire the future of women in policing."
The IPA South African Section extends its heartfelt gratitude to all partner agencies, guest speakers, venue hosts, decor and catering teams, and attendees who made the day an unforgettable success.
A special thank you to all our sponsors who provided gifts for all attendees and keynote and guest speakers:
Malas- Tyres & Wheels
Assupol & Sanlam
Elderly Care Fund For Saps Personnel
Buffelsfontein Brandewyn
*fruit Stop Gezina*
Rentals Village CC
📸 OFFICIAL GROUP PHOTO: Leaders, delegates, and officers representing SAPS, TMPD, JMPD, EMPD, Durban Metro, and Nelson Mandela Bay Metro gather at the Johann Rissik Guest House for the IPA SA National Women’s Day Celebration, featuring keynotes from SAPS Maj. Gen. Mantsi and TMPD Commissioner Faro.
