Lifeguards Honoured by City

 

By Fred Felton | Nov.9, 2025

As the City prepares for the festive season the eThekwini Municipality has honoured its lifeguards for their dedication to water safety.

Senior Lifeguard Mhlengi Gwala survived a 2018 brutal attack. He was honoured at the ceremony. | Photo: Nonjabulo Chamane. 

The awards ceremony was hosted by the Municipality’s Recreation and Parks Directorate at Moses Mabhida Stadium on 5 November to recognise beach and swimming pool lifesavers for their service.

‘’Your tireless efforts and commitment to keeping our communities safe are truly appreciated. We thank you for representing the City well to thousands of families who visit our beaches and swimming pools,’’ said Chairperson of the Community Services Committee Councillor Zama Sokhabase.

She noted that the City expects large crowds at beaches and swimming pools during the holidays and she had confidence that lifeguards were thoroughly able to handle emergencies.

EThekwini lifeguards were honoured and awarded for their bravery and professional excellence in saving lives. These everyday heroes play a vital role throughout the year, preventing drownings and ensuring public safety through vigilant supervision. | Photo: Nonjabulo Chamane. 

‘’We acknowledge that you guys are the heroes of the City,’’ said Dr S.E. Ndlovu, Director Recreation and Parks.

There were many lifeguards honoured at the ceremony and among those was Senior Lifeguard Mhlengi Gwala who survived a 2018 brutal attack that resulted in the amputation of his leg. Gwala has continued to do well in both lifesaving and global sports, earning much praise.

Senior Lifeguard Sihle Xaba was also recognised for his recent victory at the South African Bodyboard Championships and for representing the country in international surfing events.

‘’You are our unsung heroes, your dedication does not go unnoticed,’’ noted Mr Troye Brown, Chairperson Lifesaving KwaZulu Natal. 

The lifeguards also renewed their oath to protect lives during the ceremony, which ended with the unpacking of new uniforms for beach lifeguards and swimming pool supervisors.

These new uniforms show the Municipality’s commitment to safety and professionalism during the festive season.