Lieutenant General (Lt Gen) Michael Nkabinde will tomorrow take charge as the new Chief of Human Resources (CHR) of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) when outgoing CHR Lt Gen Derrick Mgwebi hands over the command.
The Department of Defence, in a statement, says Nkabinde, until recently the General Officer Commanding the SA Army’s Infantry Formation, brings with him vast military experience. “He served in the military wing of the African National Congress, uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) from 1977 when he left the country. During his military training, he demonstrated strong leadership skills which led to him being selected to undergo specialised courses in rural and urban warfare which later saw him rise into an Instructor of Engineers’ position in Sabotage at Funda Camp, in 1979.
“Because of his excellent leadership skills and discipline, he quickly rose within the ranks of MK between 1982 to 1993; he held several positions that included Chief Convenor (COS) at Caxito Camp, Camp Commander and Deputy Military Attaché in Tanzania,” the statement adds.
“After the integration of Non-Statutory Forces into the SANDF in 1994, he served as a member of the placement board and Genesis Workgroup. He was subsequently appointment to the posts of Senior Staff Officer Africa under the Director Operations; then as Deputy Chief Director Joint Doctrine and then as Deputy Chief Director Army Force Structure.
Nkabinde was appointed GOC Infantry in April 2003. He has completed a practical and Advance Project Management Diploma with UNISA, and a Masters degree in Business Administration (MBA) through the University of South Africa. He is currently studying towards a Doctorate with the University of Stellenbosch. His dissertation focuses on the impact of asset management on combat readiness.
Nkabinde was appointed as CHR with effect from October 1. A new GOC Infantry must still be appointed.
