The Safer City concept has attracted positive attention from businesses in the Nelson Mandela Metro. The wheels are set in motion by the various role-players who are committed in building a safe and secure foundation for our children and youth within the metro.

On Saturday, 23 February 2019, Gelvandale Community Policing Forum took the Safer City Project a few steps forward when they welcomed a sponsor on board in establishing a soccer club with a few divisions in the areas of Schauderville and Korsten. The initiative of this newly established soccer club by the Gelvandale CPF Chairperson, Mr Wayne Jaggers was welcomed by businessman, Mr Monty Uren. Mr Uren sponsored trophies, soccer kits, balls and other equipment to the rising soccer stars between the ages of 7-15 years and the youth.

Brigadier Zolani Xawuka representing the Mount Road Cluster Commander and Mr Timothy Hendricks representing the Mount Road Cluster Board CPF were present to acknowledge the generous sponsorship of business to this worthy initiative.

Schauderville and Korsten where gang activity is rife are the preferred areas for rolling out this new concept thus creating new opportunities and expectations of renewed hope to the children of these areas. Mr Jose Welcome who is one of the founding members of this soccer team called FC PORTO and Lt Col Lester Brass was also in attendance. The newly registered soccer team will be monitored under the Safer City concept in ‘Creating New Heroes’ for our children and youth. The Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Liziwe Ntshinga fully supports projects such as this as we , the SAPS and Community Policing Forums strive in changing the mind-set of children and youth living in crime ridden areas and bringing hope for a better life for all.

The SAPS, CPF’s and the Nelson Mandela Metro with all its stakeholders are on a journey to a safer South Africa through the creation of safer cities, safer streets and reclaiming of public spaces.

Source: South African Police Service