Honouring Nelson Mandela’s legacy, the NPA’s Upington Unit led a wide-reaching community outreach in the Kalahari region near the Namibian border.
Partnering with the South African Police Service (SAPS), Department of Social Development (DSD), South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), Department of Education (DOE), Community Policing Forum (CPF), Youth Against Crime, Community in Blue, and local Ward Councillors, the initiative brought essential services directly to residents facing social challenges.
Recognising the high prevalence of drug and alcohol abuse in the area, the collaborative team transformed the streets into a platform for awareness and support. Teams conducted door-to-door visits to raise awareness about Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), urging community members to actively report crimes and support the justice system.
Residents were encouraged to engage with officials in private settings to discuss sensitive issues, ensuring dignity and confidentiality. Cases raised during the campaign were addressed immediately or referred to appropriate departments for follow-up.
The day ended with a visit to a local home for the elderly, where senior citizens were educated about their rights and given guidance on how to report abuse. Stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the most vulnerable and maintaining an open line of support.
