Venda National Force

The Venda National Force (VNF) was a composite military/ police/ prisons service which was established when the Venda homeland became independent in September 1979. The military branch became the Venda Defence Force in 1982, and the rest of the VNF was divided into the Venda Police and the Venda Prisons Service in April 1985.

A series of decorations and medals, corresponding to the principal SA Police awards of the period, was instituted for the VNF in February 1985, on the eve of its disbandment.

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VNF Gallantry Cross (PCF) (1985)
For valour in the line of duty, or in saving life or property. The decoration could be awarded in gold or silver, depending on the degree of valour shown.

Insignia: A cross pattee, depicting a gold hare's bobtail within a blue circlet (obverse) and the Venda coat of arms (reverse).

VNF Distinguished Service Medal (SOO) (1985)
Awarded to general officers, for exceptionally distinguished service promoting the efficiency of the VNF.

Insignia: A circular gold medal displaying the letter V and two interlaced rings (obverse) and "Munene" (reverse).

VNF Outstanding Service Medal (SOE) (1985)
Awarded for outstanding service.

Insignia: Same design as the SOO, but in silver.

VNF Medal for Combating Terrorism (1985)
For counter-insurgency service (minimum 90 days).

Insignia: A circular bronze medal depicting two upright battle-axes in front of a traditional drum (obverse) and the Venda coat of arms (reverse).

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VNF Long Service Medal (1985)
For long and faithful service. Awarded cumulatively in three classes: Bronze after 10 years service, Silver after 20 years, and Gold after 30 years.

Insignia: A circular medal, depicting an elephant head (gold and silver) or a baobab tree (bronze), and the Venda national arms and "U Fulufhedzea Mushomoni" (reverse).