Message from Khonzaphi Mdaka, Chief Scout
Howling Hound Photography
Dear Scouts, Adult Leaders Rovers, parents, supporters, and friends of the Scout Movement,
Happy New Year to all of you! As we step into 2026, I welcome each and every one of you back to Scouting with renewed hope, energy, and purpose. A new year in Scouting is more than a change of date, it is an invitation to join an adventure, to explore the beauty of our country, and to embrace lifelong learning. Personally, I see every new year as an opportunity to recommit myself to the Scout Promise and Law, and to live out the values that shape us into responsible citizens and capable leaders in a rapidly changing world. I invite you to renew those vows with me. Let us commit ourselves to touching more lives and giving people the experience of living a Scout life.
Scouting has always been about preparing young people for life. In today’s modern societies, this means equipping our youth with real-world life skills such as critical thinking, quick problem solving, resilience, teamwork, entrepreneurship, ethical leadership, and service. Skills needed for Scouting members to contribute to the economic growth and strengthening of our local communities. Through Scouting, we learn how to survive in the outdoors, while becoming role models on how to thrive in society: to contribute meaningfully, to lead with integrity, and to give back wherever we are needed.
As Scouts, we lead by example. We strive to empower and educate our children through our actions, showing them what it means to develop our abilities, to serve others, to respect diversity, and to work hard for the common good. When we live our values openly and consistently, we build communities where good citizenship flourishes and where young people are inspired to become the best versions of themselves.
This year also brings international events to our South African soil! In March, we will proudly host Africa Scout Day in Johannesburg under the theme “Deep Roots, Better Future.” This theme reminds us that our strength comes from our heritage, our values, and our shared African identity. When our roots are deep in culture, service, and character, we are better prepared to build a future that is inclusive, sustainable, and full of opportunity.
I am equally excited to welcome youth from around South Africa and across the world to our country for the 2nd Africa Scout Moot in August. Under the powerful theme “Phezulu Nangaphezulu”—meaning “Higher and Higher”—this Moot will encourage young adults between 18 and 30 to unlock and grow their potential, to embrace diversity, and to challenge themselves to rise beyond limitations. Rovers will also get to explore the rich cultural and historical heritage within the city and to go further afield to experience Mzanzi’s national beauty. I encourage our local Rovers to sign up and join the 2nd Africa Rover Moot. Let’s show the world the scale of our membership and turn up for each other. Regional Commissioners, we challenge you to support your Rovers to be part of this life changing experience!
As much as I look forward to the international events, I would like to challenge our children and youth to step up their efforts in reaching their goals in achieving their Gold Star, Leaping Wolf, First Class or Springbok Award, and our young adults, you can rise and achieve your BP Rover Award this year! I am inspired every time I see Scouts progressing, achieving their advancements, and truly doing their best in all that they undertake. I look forward to celebrating you achieving these milestones throughout all our Regions.
As Chief Scout, I always look forward to meeting current Scouting members and Scout alumni from around the country and beyond on camps, at events, and in communities. In 2025 we launched our alumni programme and we call on our SCOUTS SA alumni to join our programme and give back through one or more of the programme pillars. As Scouting alumni you were given the opportunity to live and experience Scouting. It is now your turn as an alumni to give back.
Let us make this year one of purpose, courage, and impact. May we explore boldly, learn deeply, serve selflessly, and continue building a better South Africa—together.
Yours in Scouting,
Khonzaphi