Traffic Officer Andisiwe Gxabuza was honoured today by the City of Cape Town Safety and Security Portfolio Committee; Wouter de Vos gave his heartfelt thanks to her for going above and beyond.
Cape Town, South Africa (02 March 2023) – Wouter de Vos shared a heartwarming update about Traffic Officer Andisiwe Gxabuza, showing her being honoured for going above and beyond her duty, to comfort a toddler whose mother had been involved in an accident.
A photo of Officer Gxabuza was shared online, showing her carrying the toddler on her back while performing her duties at the accident scene. It quickly went viral and before long, we managed to get the full story.
Good Things Guy spoke to Cape Town Traffic Services spokesperson Maxine Bezuidenhout about the moment warming South Africa’s hearts.
A heartwarming moment caught on camera
On Sunday, the 8th of January 2023, at approximately 09:10 am, Traffic Officers Andisiwe Gxabuza and Sibongile Mqikela attended an accident scene on the N2 outbound in the vicinity of Macassa in the Western Cape.
Two motor vehicles were involved – one of the drivers was arrested by SAPS on suspicion of drunk driving while the emergency services assisted the second vehicle, which had four occupants inside – a couple, and their two children aged 2 and 11.
The children’s mother was trapped in the vehicle and had to be extricated.
The Officers decided to let the children sit in the patrol vehicle, but the 2-year-old was crying uncontrollably, and would not allow anyone to touch him.
He did not want to sit in the patrol vehicle with his brother but seemed to find comfort with Officer Gxabuza.
The Traffic Officers then decided to put the baby on Officer Gxabuza’s back to soothe him, as he wouldn’t stop crying. They requested a clean sheet from Metro EMS staff and tied the baby to her back, all while Officer Gxabuza continued with her duties in securing the scene and recording the details of the accident.
Within a few minutes, the baby calmed down and fell asleep.
The moment was caught on camera and inspired so many people. Many called for Officer Gxabuza to be honoured for her efforts and that is exactly what has happened!
Being honoured for her efforts
Wouter de Vos shared the news that Officer Gxabuza has been honoured by the City of Cape Town Safety and Security Portfolio Committee. He was there to personally thank her for her service.
“This wonderful officer, Andisiswe Gxabuza, took it upon herself to take personal care of this precious baby under difficult and traumatic circumstances.
Whilst continuing with her duties on the accident scene.
This is EXACTLY the type of dedication and commitment that the most amazing of officers will display.
This is the personification of our Cape Town as a caring city.
Officer Gxabuza, I salute and respect you!”
This is a wonderful update to receive, our hearts are full!