Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong has called on public servants to treat their roles as a vital calling to serve society, rather than just a job. He made these remarks at the 2026 Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Public Service Month commemoration, held in Pretoria on September 23, 2026. Morolong emphasized that public service is a commitment to prioritize the needs of the people.
Morolong highlighted that public service is rooted in the principles of Batho Pele, which emphasizes putting people first. He noted that public servants share a responsibility to contribute to the well-being, development, and prosperity of South Africa. Public Service Month is recognized annually in September to celebrate the contributions of public servants and encourage continuous improvement in service delivery.
The Deputy Minister emphasized that Public Service Month is not just a calendar event, but a celebration and a call to action. It recognizes the contributions of public servants while challenging them to strengthen their performance and uphold the values of professionalism, integrity, accountability, and compassion. Morolong urged public servants to take pride in their work and remain focused on the tasks ahead.
Morolong highlighted the unique mandate of the GCIS, which is to ensure that communication is linked to effective service delivery. He noted that citizens can only access government opportunities and programs when they are empowered with accurate, timely, and relevant information. The GCIS plays a critical role in bridging the gap between policy and the people it serves.
With the Local Government Elections approaching on November 4, 2026, Morolong emphasized that the demands on government communicators will increase exponentially. He urged them to provide factual, accessible, and responsive information to the public. Government communication must always be politically impartial, he added.
Morolong concluded by urging public servants within the GCIS to continue serving with professionalism, integrity, and purpose. He emphasized the importance of working together to build a stronger GCIS and a better South Africa. By doing so, government communication can inform, strengthen democracy, promote accountability, and help build a more united, inclusive, and prosperous nation.
The Deputy Minister's address was part of the government's efforts to promote a culture of service and accountability among public servants. His remarks reflect the government's commitment to ensuring that public service is a vital calling that prioritizes the needs of the people. By emphasizing the importance of professionalism, integrity, and purpose, Morolong encouraged public servants to strive for excellence in their work.
Key points
- Deputy Minister Kenny Morolong urges public servants to view their roles as a calling to serve society, not just a job.
- Public Service Month is recognized annually in September to celebrate the contributions of public servants and encourage continuous improvement in service delivery.
- Government communication must be factual, accessible, and responsive to the needs of the public, particularly during the Local Government Elections.
