Heed these stokvel safety tips ahead of the festive season

As the year-end holiday season approaches, Mmapheello Mokoena, chairperson of the Reiger Park CPF, is urging local stokvels to follow critical safety guidelines to prevent robberies during money-sharing activities.

With the increased vulnerability of stokvels during this time, the CPF is stepping in with preventative advice and practical steps to ensure the security of members and their finances.

“Empowering communities to take ownership of their safety is the key to lasting change,” said Mokeona.

The CPF’s comprehensive safety plan includes recommendations for both individuals and groups to reduce risks as they gather to share savings.

Pre-sharing precautions
1. Location choice: Choose secure, private venues for all meetings.
2. Police notification: Inform the local police or CPF about meeting schedules.
3. Confidentiality: Keep membership and meeting details confidential to avoid unwanted attention.
4. Secure communication: Set up secure communication channels, such as a WhatsApp group, exclusively for members.

Safety during meetings
1. Timing: If possible, hold meetings during daylight hours.
2. Group attendance: Ensure multiple members are present when handling cash.
3. Storage: Use a locked container for storing and counting money securely.
4. Privacy: Count cash away from public view and avoid displaying large amounts.

Financial management
1. Bank use: Consider using a bank account for group savings to reduce cash handling.
2. Electronic transactions: Encourage using EFT for contributions and payouts.
3. Record-keeping: Maintain accurate records of all transactions.
4. Treasurer rotation: Rotate treasurers or assign multiple signatories to enhance accountability.

Secure money handling
1. Discreet containers: Use unmarked containers for transporting money.
2. Cash avoidance: Avoid carrying large cash sums if possible.
3. Security services: Consider armoured vehicles or secure transfer services for significant amounts.
4. Limit withdrawals: Minimise withdrawal amounts to reduce risks.

Also Read: CPF warns of crime spike in Reiger Park

Emergency protocols
1. Crisis plan: Develop a crisis plan in case of a robbery.
2. Emergency contacts: Designate contact persons for emergencies.
3. Phone numbers: Keep essential numbers, such as police and CPF, easily accessible.
4. Incident reporting: Report any security incidents immediately.

Additional safety tips
1. Seasonal timing: Where possible, avoid money-sharing during peak holiday months, like December and January.
2. Vigilance: Be alert to suspicious individuals or vehicles around meeting places.
3. Valuable security: Keep valuables and cash out of sight.
4. Security partnerships: Consider hiring security services if necessary.

Year-end specific tips
1. Early planning: Schedule payouts earlier in the year to avoid holiday-season risks.
2. Electronic payouts: Use mobile banking or electronic payouts for convenience and security.
3. Contact updates: Regularly update contact details for all members.
4. Security review: Regularly review and improve stokvel security measures.

Enhanced communication
Mokoena emphasised the importance of educating stokvel members about robbery prevention, keeping them informed of local crime trends, and encouraging the reporting of suspicious activity.

“Open communication between members is essential for collective safety.”

Mokoena encourages stokvels to collaborate with local CPFs, police, and community security groups.

The CPF also recommends accessing financial literacy resources and partnering with established financial institutions to further enhance safety.

Also Read: CPF warns about more spikings on highways