KZN's Lt Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi Honored as 'Risk Influencer of the Year' by IRMSA

In an impressive ceremony in Pretoria, the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, was distinguished with the 'Risk Influencer of the Year' award by the Institute for Risk Management South Africa (IRMSA). General Fannie Masemola, National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), led the accolades in a session that saw various high-ranking officials in attendance.

The award, presented by IRMSA President Mr. Bheki Gutshwa and CEO Ms. Yvonne Mothibi, is part of the Risk Excellence Awards which recognize individuals making significant contributions to risk management. These contributions aim to safeguard people, protect reputations, and boost profits while enhancing the safety and interests of the nation.

Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi's receipt of this prestigious accolade underlines his unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of risk awareness and resilience not only within KwaZulu-Natal but throughout South Africa. His innovative approaches to risk management have notably increased the safety and security of community residents under his jurisdiction.

“This award recognises the SAPS' dedication to risk management and our commitment to creating a safer and more secure environment for all,” remarked Lt Gen Mkhwanazi during the event. His leadership has been pivotal in instilling a proactive approach to managing risks within the SAPS, thereby enhancing the force's crime-fighting capabilities and public confidence.

General Fannie Masemola, on behalf of SAPS management, extolled Lt Gen Mkhwanazi’s leadership qualities and his role in motivating personnel to prioritize risk management strategies. Previous recipients of this award include noteworthy figures such as President Cyril Ramaphosa and Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng, indicating the high caliber of leadership recognized by IRMSA.

The accolade is a testament to Lt Gen Mkhwanazi's effective leadership and his substantial efforts in promoting substantive safety measures in one of South Africa’s crucial provinces. As crime and risks evolve, the role of risk management within law enforcement continues to be a critical aspect for ensuring holistic community safety and resilience against various threats.

The recognition by IRMSA underscores the importance of leadership in risk management, and serves as an inspiration for other leaders in the public and private sectors to prioritize and innovate in their respective risk management practices.