The initiative is a proactive measure to enhance personal safety and provide immediate access to emergency services for residents in informal settlements.
Soshanguve Marry Me residents registering for the e-panic button.
In a move to improve the safety of residents in the Marry Me informal settlement, Soshanguve, the Gauteng department of e-government launched an initiative on April 4.
The day was dedicated to assisting the community in downloading the e-panic button app to help curb crime.
This is to address the long-standing criminal activities in the informal settlement amid the recent brutal killings in the area.
e-Government representative explaining the process to a resident.Residents queuing to register.
Gauteng e-government digital manager Clyde Meela explained the role and purpose of the app in enhancing public safety in the area.
“The Gauteng e-Panic button is a free mobile application that allows residents to quickly alert law enforcement and emergency responders whenever they feel in danger,” he said.
He said the app will ensure faster reactions to incidents of crime or medical emergencies.
Meela further relayed that for those without smartphones, physical solutions like a call centre and a command centre will ensure that they still receive the help they need.
“Our call centre can locate your position and send necessary help, whether it’s an ambulance or a crime prevention official,” he said.
The event was packed with community members from neighbouring areas, including elderly residents and persons with disabilities who attended the event to learn more about the initiative.
e-Government representative helping residents to download the e-panic button app.
During registration, each resident was gifted a bottle as a token of appreciation for their attendance.
Many residents in the community expressed their experiences and gratitude for the initiative, acknowledging the app’s potential to enhance their safety.
Jonas Maposa (63)
“We often encounter criminals who threaten us with guns and rob us of our phones and money,” said Jonas Maposa.
He said the app will help him feel safe whenever he goes out.
Maria Sekwakwa relayed the same sentiments, pointing out the lack of protection in the area.
Maria Sekwakwa
“This place is not protected at all; I believe the panic button will help me a lot, especially in situations where I have previously fought with people for my own company.”
Another resident, Mmakosha Anna Mogale shared her concerns regarding her own vulnerability.
“I live with my husband who is suffering from a stroke, and we are both pensioners.
I believe the app will help me to alert the police whenever we are attacked by criminals in the yard,” Mogale said.
You called, we listened and showed up🫡
Today, we’re on the ground at the Merry Me informal settlement in Pretoria, an area recently shaken by violent crime.
Our team is assisting residents to download the Gauteng e-Panic Button app to help enhance their safety. pic.twitter.com/z6Bfb1iJaJ
