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CAPTION (left to right): Patrick Freeman, Operations Manager with newly appointed Samuel Radebe, Maintenance Operations Manager
Polokwane, Limpopo – Meropa Casino & Entertainment World has appointed Samuel Radebe as Maintenance Operations Manager, effective 1 May 2026, reinforcing the property’s focus on operational excellence and guest experience.
Radebe joins the team with extensive experience in maintenance and engineering and will lead the casino’s maintenance division, reporting to Patrick Freeman, Operations Manager. His role will focus on ensuring the reliable performance of equipment and infrastructure across the property while maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency.
With a career spanning several major organisations, Radebe began as an Automation Technician at Scaw Metals before moving into roles at South African Breweries, where he progressed to Electrical Specialist. He has also held positions in electrical systems within the engineering sector and most recently served as Facilities Manager at Old Mutual.
He holds an N6 in Industrial Electronics, a National Diploma in Electrical Engineering and is a Trade Test qualified artisan. He is also a Certified Registered Installation Electrician.
In his new role, Radebe will oversee maintenance operations across the property, including the hotel, with a focus on maximising equipment uptime and improving operational efficiencies.
Meropa Casino’s General Manager, Charlene Ludick said the appointment reflects the property’s continued investment in strengthening its operational capability. “Samuel brings strong technical expertise and proven leadership experience. His appointment will support our commitment to maintaining high standards across the property and delivering a quality experience for every guest.”
“The appointment will play an important role in supporting the smooth running of the business and enhancing its overall service offering.”
Meropa Casino invests in future gaming talent through learnership programme
CAPTION (left to right):
Back row: Malesela Matlaila, Lufuno Selima, Mpho Maribe, Nhlonipho Mabunda, Jessica Seiso, and Bokang Maja
Front row: Lemos Hlongwane (People and Business Enabler Partner) Dimakatso Makhafola, Merriam Khumalo, Matildah Mamabolo, Kgabo Mamaregana, Mamane Serage, Tshepang Manamela, and Anna Mothapo (Trainer)
Polokwane, Limpopo – Meropa Casino & Entertainment World has enrolled 12 learners in its Gaming Learnership Programme, focusing on table dealing and reinforcing its commitment to skills development and youth empowerment in the gaming and hospitality sector.
The 12 month learnership combines theoretical training with practical workplace experience, equipping participants with the skills required to build careers in the casino gaming industry. Learners receive structured instruction in table dealing, customer service, regulatory compliance and responsible gaming practices.
The programme has been running for more than five years and has developed a strong track record, with approximately 90 percent of learners securing permanent employment within Sun International properties. In the most recent intake, eight of the 12 learners were placed in permanent roles, including four at GrandWest in Cape Town, highlighting the programme’s impact across the group.
The learnership forms part of Meropa Casino’s broader focus on sustainable skills development and job creation, particularly for young people from surrounding communities.
“Our Gaming Learnership Programme is designed to create meaningful career pathways by combining accredited training with real workplace exposure. The high absorption rate into permanent roles demonstrates the programme’s success in developing industry ready talent and contributing to the growth of the gaming sector,” said Meropa Casino’s General Manager, Charlene Ludick.
Meropa Casino remains committed to investing in initiatives that build critical skills, strengthen local talent and support the long term sustainability of South Africa’s gaming and hospitality industry.
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