What started as a modest, locally co-ordinated safety effort during the holy month of Ramadan has quietly grown into becoming one of the most effective community-driven security initiatives, which is now set to be rolled out across Gauteng.

Spearheaded by Benoni CPF chairperson Dr Reza Patel in 2017, the Safer Ramadan Project was born out of concern to protect places of worship.

“Evening Taraweeh prayers, early morning gatherings, increased foot traffic and predictable schedules created vulnerabilities within the Muslim community, and we needed structure to better protect our residents,” said Patel.

“Launched within the Ekurhuleni district, the project has grown immensely. Currently, 112 Masaajid, Musallahs and private Taraweeh venues have been incorporated into a coordinated safety framework.”

He said that through disciplined planning, visible patrols, structured communication channels and operational alignment with law enforcement and security partners, the initiative has contributed to a reduction in crime affecting worshippers during Ramadan.

“This was never about fear; it was about responsibility. Faith teaches us to trust, but it also teaches us to take practical steps in safeguarding our community,” said Patel.

“Its success has now drawn attention beyond Ekurhuleni and discussions are underway to expand the model into Johannesburg and Tshwane, consolidating coverage across the three major metropolitan municipalities of Gauteng.”

It is hoped to further extend the project nationally, creating a replicable template for structured community/law enforcement co-operation.

“The future vision includes broadening the project to support churches, temples and other places of worship,” he said.

“Crime does not discriminate; protection should not either.

“This project belongs to every CPF member who gave up sleep, every security officer who remained on patrol, every SAPS member who responded, and every volunteer who understood that protecting a place of worship protects the community.”

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