The Flagstaff Community Police Forum (CPF) has launched a new initiative aimed at mobilizing men to combat crime and uphold community safety. As part of this effort, the CPF has introduced a Clergy Spiritual Crime Prevention arm and engaged the local Flagstaff Paralegal Office to strengthen its mission of saying “No to crime—Not in My Name.”
Speaking with Pondoland Times, the CPF’s executive members recognized the importance of International Men’s Day, observed annually on November 19. They decided to use this day as a platform to call on men to take a stand against crime. A series of preparatory meetings was held on October 7, October 14, and October 21 to lay the groundwork for an upcoming workshop, which took place on October 24 at Myezo B & B. The workshop, sponsored by the Flagstaff Paralegal Office, aimed to equip community leaders and members with the necessary tools and strategies to prevent crime.
Organizers and Key Contributors
The key organizers behind this initiative are:
- Mr. Z. Mbono (Flagstaff Paralegal Office, 083 428 1205)
- W/O L. Tshaka (SAPS, 073 016 0291)
- Mr. B. Matshoba (Inkonjane Community Radio, 076 307 9754)
- Mr. Z. Ngcobo (Ex-Police Officer, 073 985 6202)
- Sgt P. Bomali (SAPS/CPO, 078 257 0724/072 530 3437)
- Mr. K. Mviko (078 098 9571)
The organizers are planning to hold a larger Men’s Imbizo on November 5, targeting a gathering of 200 to 300 men. A formal request for the use of the Ingquza Hill Local Municipality (IHLM) Auditorium as the venue has been submitted to the Mayor, and a response is eagerly awaited.
The CPF hopes to achieve a major milestone on November 19, 2024, International Men’s Day, with an anticipated attendance of over 1,000 men. The event is expected to be officially launched by the Honorable Premier of the Eastern Cape, establishing it as an annual occurrence focused on men’s engagement in crime prevention.
Community and Traditional Support
The CPF has called upon Traditional Authorities, recognizing them as the custodians of culture, customs, and traditions, to lend their support to the initiative. Additionally, they have urged the clergy to join the effort, acknowledging them as the custodians of moral values.
“We believe that uniting men in the community against crime and reinforcing traditional values is essential to creating a safer and more harmonious society,” said one of the organizers.
This initiative marks a significant step in promoting accountability and responsibility among men in the community. The CPF and its partners are committed to spreading the message far and wide, encouraging men to stand together in the fight against crime and uphold their community’s values.
