The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu recently appointed Lieutenant General (Lt Gen) Michael Nkabinde as the Chief of Human Resources of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).

On Friday, 14 October 2011 the outgoing Chief Human Resources, Lt Gen Derrick Mgwebi was handing over the command to incoming Chief Human Resources Lt Gen Mike Nkabinde.

Lt Gen Mike Nkabinde 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.

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 Director Operations; then as Deputy Chief Director Joint Doctrine and then as Deputy Chief Director Army Force Structure.

Lt Gen Nkabinde was the General Officer Commanding SA Army Infantry Formation 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.

Lt Gen Nkabinde is currently studying towards a Doctorate Degree with the University of Stellenbosch focus on impact of Asset Management on Combat Readiness as a dissertation. Lieutenant General Nkabinde was appointed as Chief of Human Resources with effect from 01 October 2011.

The Change of Command Parade was held at Personnel Service School, Thaba Tshwane, Pretoria.