By Dr Zizamele Cebekhulu-Makhaza, President of the Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU)
Women in the police service, particularly in special task units, bring unique strengths and perspectives that set them apart from their male colleagues and add significant value to their teams. This is precisely why we should strive to increase the representation of women in the SAPS special task force (STF).
While gender should never be the only determining factor in selecting a police officer, recognising the value that women bring to the police service is vital for developing a well-rounded and more effective police service in South Africa.
The recent historic achievement of the first woman officer to complete the STF’s rigorous training without any special amendments is a testament to the potential of women in this specialised unit. It is commendable that the SAPS has taken steps to encourage greater gender diversity, and I strongly encourage further efforts to increase the representation of women in elite units like the STF.
This member’s achievement in completing the training without any gender-specific adjustments underscores her exceptional dedication and capabilities. She has proven that gender is not a hindrance to excelling in a demanding and specialised role such as this. Her example serves as an inspiration for female officers everywhere.
More must be done to introduce women into the STF
Previously a male-only unit, the STF could benefit enormously from the skills and experiences that women offer. Diverse teams are known to be more innovative and effective problem solvers. Having more women on the STF could bring fresh ideas and approaches to operational challenges, stimulating creativity and adaptability within the unit. Additionally, diverse teams are often able to make better, more well-informed and considered decisions, which would make the STF better equipped to handle the complex situations that they encounter.
One significant advantage that female officers often possess lies in their communication skills and empathy, which male officers may lack in certain circumstances. These qualities can be particularly beneficial when dealing with sensitive situations or engaging directly with members of the public. Female officers’ particular communication style can help to de-escalate tense situations and enhance relationships with the community.
Women are also more likely to establish trust and rapport with victims, witnesses, and other vulnerable individuals who might feel more comfortable discussing sensitive matters with a female officers.
To achieve a more inclusive STF, we must actively encourage and support female officers in their pursuit of a career in this elite unit. Equal opportunities for training and advancement should be provided wherever possible, and any barriers or biases that hinder women’s progress should be identified and removed. Mentoring programmes and support networks also need to be established to empower aspiring female officers, and guide them through the challenging process of becoming an STF member.
Finally, it is vital to promote gender equality throughout the entire SAPS. By fostering an environment that values diversity and inclusion, we can cultivate a police service that better represents and understands the diverse communities that it serves. Gender-sensitive policies and practices will not only attract more women to the STF, but will also lead to better overall police performance.