Every year, our community members are reminded of the patriotism and selfless sacrifice the class of 1976 made towards the democracy we now enjoy.
Unlike fighting against the one common enemy, apartheid, the youth of today are challenged with the unnerving task of having to confront challenges such as inequality, poverty and unemployment. Often these challenges result in the youth indulging in substance abuse, particularly nyaope, which often leads to crime so they can feed their habits.
Consequentially, this requires a country that’s determined and willing to advocate the youth to actively participate in the fight against crime. Such initiative was realised by the Department of Community Safety through sustainable programmes, such as the establishment of 92 Youth Crime Prevention Desks located in all the 142 police stations across Gauteng.
There is also a need for all youth formations to be involved in the safety of their communities by participating and developing safety initiatives.
Our country has the opportunity to transform its wealth into sustainable livelihoods for the population, particularly the youth. This can be done through extensive collaboration between government and various sectors of our society. Youth empowerment programmes will ensure that the country becomes safer for all.
Let us all rally behind them and support these programmes.
Busi Kheswa, Gauteng Community Safety
