There is a new South African Air Force Commander in town, and she’s more than ready for the responsibility.
Phetogo Molawa has made history over the weekend after becoming not only the first Black person, but the first Woman to take command of the South African Airforce (SAAF).
Molawa has become the first Black female to become a Base Station Commander.
The Lt Colonel with 20 years service coming up handed over the command to her on Saturday. Lucy Lastic took to Twitter to break the news .
“My son handing over command in PE SAAF yesterday to not only the first Black, but the first Woman! I’m shocked it didn’t make more media coverage. She’s a great chopper pilot & single mom. Take a bow, Phetogo (‘Pets’) you’re a star.”
“They’re good friends & colleagues. He says she’s one of the best (even among males) he’s ever trained. Since about Feb this year he’s been grooming & helping her ease into the Big Seat as Boss.”
Molawa, from the central Free State Province, finished her pilot training for the South African National Defence Force in 2007 to become the first black female pilot in South Africa. Since then, her training and determination have prepared her for this new role.
“I wanted to show other young women that I can do what men can do.”
“Above all, soldiers get things done, we protect our country’s airspace and also contribute in building a better world during our external deployments.”
The SAAF is the official air force of South Africa, with headquarters in Pretoria, it was established on 1 February 1920.
The Air Force has seen service in World War II and the Korean War. From 1966 the SAAF was involved in providing infantry support in a low intensity war (“The Border War”) in Angola, South-West Africa (Namibia) and Rhodesia. As the war progressed, the intensity of air operations increased until in the late 1980s, the SAAF were compelled to fly fighter missions against Angolan aircraft in order to maintain tactical air superiority.
On conclusion of the Border War in 1990, aircraft numbers were severely reduced due to economic pressures as well as the cessation of hostilities with neighbouring states.
Today the SAAF has a limited air combat capability and has been structured towards regional peace-keeping, disaster relief and maritime patrol operations.
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