A radio communication network is being expanded to boost emergency response, improve community safety, and strengthen co-ordination between residents, neighbourhood watches, security firms and emergency services across northern Pretoria and nearby areas.

The AfriForum’s Noord van die Berg branch network, which covers a large geographical area stretching from Pretoria’s northern suburbs to neighbouring communities, was established to provide a reliable communication platform during emergencies when traditional communication methods may fail.

According to AfriForum district co-ordinator Llewellynn Hemmens, the initiative was developed in response to the growing need for dependable communication during critical incidents.

“Reliable communication is essential during emergencies, and cellphone networks can become unreliable during power outages, disasters or periods of high network congestion,” said Hemmens.

He explained that the repeater network allows users to communicate directly across a wide area, ensuring that information can be shared quickly when every second counts.

Unlike cellphone-based communication, radio communication does not depend on cellular infrastructure or internet connectivity.

A single transmission can be heard by multiple users simultaneously, enabling faster co-ordination and reducing delays in emergencies.

The network serves as a dedicated communication platform where incidents can be reported and co-ordinated in real time.

Hemmens said residents, neighbourhood watch members, private security companies, and emergency responders are able to communicate on a common channel, ensuring that important information reaches all relevant role players instantly.

Ruan Janse van Vuuren of AfriForum said the radio network has already played a significant role in various incidents across the region.

“The network has assisted in reporting suspicious activities, co-ordinating responses to house break-ins and providing support at vehicle accidents.

“We also assisted in the recovery of a stolen vehicle, which led to the arrest of a suspect in co-operation with security partners,” said Janse van Vuuren.

He added that the network was instrumental in helping to stop a veld fire in Amandasig before it could spread to nearby residential properties.

“Our medical responder deals with approximately 10 medical incidents every day. Through the radio network, he can communicate directly with our newly established control room, which can then arrange the necessary emergency services.

“There was also a recent incident in Heatherdale where three suspects were apprehended while allegedly attempting to break into a property.”

Neighbourhood watch volunteers form a key component of the communication network.

Volunteers act as the eyes and ears of their communities and are often among the first people to observe and report suspicious activity or emergencies.

To support volunteers and residents, AfriForum offers free radio speech and tactical training.

Participants are taught proper radio etiquette, emergency communication procedures, incident reporting techniques and how to communicate clearly and effectively during emergencies.

Janse van Vuuren said community participation remains central to the success of the initiative.

“The network has strengthened community involvement and increased awareness of safety-related issues.

We continue to see more residents, neighbourhood watch members and community partners joining the network, which ultimately benefits everyone.”

AfriForum aims to further expand the network’s coverage, increase the number of trained radio users and strengthen partnerships with neighbourhood watches, security companies, and emergency services from Brits to Cullinan and Centurion.

“Our goal is to build stronger, safer communities through effective communication and greater community involvement,” said Hemmens.

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