MEC Tonny Rachoene Turns Sandriver into a Celebration of Excellence

By Mpho Dube – Editor‑in‑Chief, The Azanian

The Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure’s Sandriver Cost Centre outside Polokwane buzzed with pride this week as MEC Tonny Rachoene declared it a “high‑note” start to the department’s calendar.

Speaking at the launch of #OperationTsogaMoshomi, Rachoene highlighted a double triumph for two of his own officials who walked away as the Driver of the Year champions at the Department of Transport and Community Safety’s weekend competition.

Shadrack Sape and Tshepang Makoti were crowned the best in the rigid and light vehicle categories, respectively. Their flawless performance behind the wheel earned applause not only for personal skill but for showcasing the professionalism that the province strives to embed in every road‑maintenance crew.

“Seeing our own staff honored at a provincial level reinforces the culture of excellence we’re cultivating,” Rachoene said, his voice echoing across the bustling site. “It tells the community that we don’t just build roads; we build reliability, safety, and pride.”

The celebration was more than a morale boost—it underscored the tangible outcomes of #OperationTsogaMoshomi, a campaign launched to accelerate service delivery, improve road safety, and tighten collaboration between the department and local municipalities.

Under Rachoene’s stewardship, the initiative has already seen a 15 % reduction in reported road accidents in the pilot areas and a 20 % increase in community satisfaction scores.

Rachoene, known for his hands‑on approach, was spotted walking the site, checking progress on the D2454 road upgrade that will link Dalmada’s schools and farms, and engaging with frontline workers. “When the people who keep our roads moving are recognized, it sends a powerful message to every employee and to the public that we value competence and dedication,” he added.

The success at Sandriver also shines a light on the department’s broader agenda: integrating technology, upskilling staff, and ensuring that every kilometre of road reflects the province’s commitment to development. As the MEC prepares to roll out similar initiatives across Limpopo, the triumph of Sape and Makoti serves as a benchmark for what disciplined, motivated teams can achieve.

In a province where infrastructure is the backbone of economic growth, Tonny Rachoene’s leadership is proving that celebration of small wins fuels larger victories. The Sandriver win is not just a story of drivers—it’s a story of a department that refuses to settle for anything less than excellence.

Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure MEC Tonny Rachoene leading by example...