THE establishment of ward-based community safety forums (CSFs) as well as voting district-based CSFs should be finalised by mid-2016.
This was revealed by the MMC for Community Safety, Clr Mthuthuzeli Siboza, at an evaluation conference of the Community Safety Forum (CSF) in Germiston.
According to Chief Supt Wilfred Kgasago, metro police spokesman, the objective of the conference was to reflect on the past 12 months with regards to progress made since the official launch of the CSF in July last year.
In laying a firm foundation for the CSF, extensive consultative processes were initiated in 2012, which included sensitising communities at ward committee level. This was followed by consultative workshops with all other stakeholders, culminating in an official launching conference in July 2013.
Siboza said three regional CSF structures had been established and at least five major successful awareness campaigns had been conducted. A significant augmentation in terms of human resources of metro police personnel had also been realised.
“Although we are still faced with challenges in respect of financial constraints and clarifying of the difference between CSFs and community policing forums (CPFs) to our communities, great strides have been made since the official launch last year.
“A community safety plan (CSP) has been adopted with remedial measures in place to solicit funds and stepping up on awareness campaigns,” said Siboza.
He made a plea to the delegates to ensure that all formations, youths, families and individuals actively took a bold stand against crime in their homes, streets, neighbourhoods and the entire region in order to create a safer Ekurhuleni for all.
“The onus is on each and every one of us to play a genuine and sincere role in making our homes and streets safe,” concluded Siboza.
