By Phenyo Selinda
In a significant milestone for both gender equality and aviation within the South African Police Service (SAPS), Lieutenant Colonel Kgothatso Khunou has become the first African female chief helicopter pilot attached to the SAPS Airwing in the Free State. As one of only 17 female pilots within SAPS nationwide, Khunou’s journey to this prestigious position is a testament to her resilience, courage, and unwavering dedication to serving her country.
A Journey Rooted in Courage and Determination
Kgothatso Khunou, whose name aptly translates to “courage” in Setswana, has consistently lived up to her name throughout her career. Born and raised in Rustenburg, a town in North West Province, Khunou fondly recalls her upbringing as that of a “village girl,” grounded in simplicity and humility. Despite her humble beginnings, she nurtured a deep-seated ambition to pursue a career in science from a young age.
However, fate had different plans for Khunou. In 2010, after obtaining a National Diploma in Biotechnology, she was presented with an unexpected opportunity that would change the trajectory of her life. The Royal Bafokeng Administration offered her a scholarship to obtain a commercial pilot licence—a proposition that would see her face her greatest fear: flying. Driven by her characteristic courage, Khunou accepted the challenge, determined to conquer her fears and break new ground.
Her successful completion of the pilot training led to her joining SAPS in 2014 as a junior pilot with the rank of warrant officer. Over the next decade, Khunou honed her skills, steadily rising through the ranks to her current position as chief helicopter pilot in the Free State. Her story is one of perseverance, embodying the spirit of breaking barriers in a field traditionally dominated by men.
Celebrating Women in Blue
The month of August, dedicated to celebrating women in South Africa, has seen SAPS spotlighting the achievements of its women in blue, particularly those who are pioneers in their respective fields. Lieutenant Colonel Khunou stands out as a shining example of what women can achieve when they are determined to break through glass ceilings.
As a helicopter pilot, Khunou’s responsibilities are both diverse and critical. Her duties range from providing aerial support during ground unit operations to conducting searches for stolen vehicles and livestock. She is also actively involved in search and rescue missions, showcasing her versatility and commitment to public service.
Most recently, Khunou has been deployed to Operation Vala Umgodi, a nationwide initiative aimed at clamping down on illicit mining activities. This operation, which has already seen commendable progress, is particularly significant for Khunou as it highlights her role in a high-stakes mission that directly impacts the safety and security of South Africa’s resources.
A Role Model in Aviation and Beyond
Lieutenant Colonel Khunou’s involvement in Operation Vala Umgodi reached new heights on 1 August 2024, during a women-led mission in Benoni as part of the Women’s Month celebrations. The operation, which culminated in the arrest of 178 illicit miners and the seizure of over 400 pendukas (hand-held mining tools) and various other illicit mining equipment, was a resounding success. Khunou played a pivotal role in the aerial coordination of this mission, demonstrating her exceptional leadership and operational skills.
Reflecting on her journey, Khunou shared an inspiring message: “When you set goals, always tell yourself that the sky is not even the limit. I was once afraid of flying, but now I serve my country fearlessly as an SAPS helicopter pilot.” Her words resonate deeply, not only with her colleagues within SAPS but also with young women across South Africa who aspire to break barriers in their own careers.
Public and Social Media Reactions
Khunou’s achievements have not gone unnoticed, both within SAPS and among the broader public. Social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has seen an outpouring of support and admiration for Khunou, with users praising her as a trailblazer in aviation. One user tweeted, “Lieutenant Colonel Khunou is an inspiration to all women, proving that with determination, anything is possible. #WomenInBlue #BreakingBarriers.” Another added, “Saluting Lieutenant Colonel Kgothatso Khunou for soaring high and leading the way in a male-dominated field. We need more role models like her.”
The recognition of Khunou’s accomplishments during Women’s Month has also sparked broader conversations about the importance of gender diversity in traditionally male-dominated industries, such as aviation and law enforcement. Many have pointed out that her success is a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to promote gender equality within SAPS and beyond.
The Importance of Gender Diversity in Aviation and Law Enforcement
Lieutenant Colonel Khunou’s story is not just about personal achievement; it is also about the broader significance of gender diversity in aviation and law enforcement. Her success underscores the need for more inclusive policies and practices that encourage women to pursue careers in fields where they have historically been underrepresented.
Research has shown that diversity in the workplace, including gender diversity, leads to better decision-making, increased innovation, and improved performance. In aviation, having more women in leadership roles like Khunou’s can bring new perspectives and approaches to the challenges faced by the industry.
Within SAPS, Khunou’s rise to the position of chief helicopter pilot is a powerful example of how the organisation is evolving to become more inclusive and reflective of the diversity of South Africa. Her success sends a strong message to other women within SAPS and the wider community that with determination and support, they too can achieve their goals, no matter how ambitious.
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