Eastern Cape communities are being called to play an active role in building safer neighbourhoods, following a high-level stakeholder engagement hosted in East London on Thursday, 22 January 2026.
The event, led by the Department of Community Safety, brought together government departments, local structures, and security regulators to strengthen joint planning and community-led crime prevention.
What is happening?
The Eastern Cape Department of Community Safety joined a Ministerial Stakeholder Engagement in East London on 22 January 2026.
The gathering brought together government departments, law enforcement, and local community structures to strengthen coordination and develop joint plans to reduce crime.
It was attended by:
- MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Xolile Nqatha
- Head of Department, Phiko Frank Mbambo
- Local representatives from Buffalo City and other districts
- SAPS, PSIRA, and Safety Brigade partners
Why it matters to you
This engagement directly affects residents across the Eastern Cape who want to live in safer communities.
Officials called for stronger partnerships between communities, law enforcement, and support programmes, many of which are already showing results through local Safety Brigades and youth crime prevention desks.
If you live in an area affected by crime or want to be part of the solution, this collaborative plan may offer opportunities to get involved, upskill, or access support.
What you need to know
MEC Xolile Nqatha said sustainable safety can only be achieved when government and communities take joint responsibility.
He emphasised the theme of the engagement: “Musa Ukuthula Kusonakala” — Don’t keep quiet when things go wrong.
Key points from the meeting include:
- Youth-led interventions are working:
Ms Unathi Moss from the Buffalo City Youth Crime Prevention Desk said initiatives like the Safety Brigade Programme are restoring trust and improving coordination between communities, CPF structures, and SAPS. - Support from national and private partners:
Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia said crime reduction needs regular monitoring, integrated planning, and asset seizure from criminal networks. - Boost for community brigades:
PSIRA’s CEO, Mr Manabela Chauke, pledged:- 150 reflector jackets for Safety Brigades
- Free training and certification
- More protective gear for registered units linked to police stations
